DiagnosisA diagnosis of preeclampsia happens if you have high blood pressure after 20 weeks of pregnancy and at least one of the following findings: Show
High blood pressureA blood pressure reading has two numbers. The first number is the systolic pressure, a measure of blood pressure when the heart is contracting. The second number is the diastolic pressure, a measure of blood pressure when the heart is relaxed. In pregnancy, high blood pressure is diagnosed if the systolic pressure is 140 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher or if the diastolic pressure is 90 mm Hg or higher. A number of factors can affect your blood pressure. If you have a high blood pressure reading during an appointment, your health care provider will likely take a second reading four hours later to confirm a diagnosis of high blood pressure. Additional testsIf you have high blood pressure, your health care provider will order additional tests to check for other signs of preeclampsia:
TreatmentThe primary treatment for preeclampsia is either to deliver the baby or manage the condition until the best time to deliver the baby. This decision with your health care provider will depend on the severity of preeclampsia, the gestational age of your baby, and the overall health of you and your baby. If preeclampsia isn't severe, you may have frequent provider visits to monitor your blood pressure, any changes in signs or symptoms, and the health of your baby. You'll likely be asked to check your blood pressure daily at home. Treatment of severe preeclampsiaSevere preeclampsia requires that you be in the hospital to monitor your blood pressure and possible complications. Your health care provider will frequently monitor the growth and well-being of your baby. Medications to treat severe preeclampsia usually include:
DeliveryIf you have preeclampsia that isn't severe, your health care provider may recommend preterm delivery after 37 weeks. If you have severe preeclampsia, your health care provider will likely recommend delivery before 37 weeks, depending on the severity of complications and the health and readiness of the baby. The method of delivery — vaginal or cesarean — depends on the severity of disease, gestational age of the baby and other considerations you would discuss with your health care provider. After deliveryYou need to be closely monitored for high blood pressure and other signs of preeclampsia after delivery. Before you go home, you'll be instructed when to seek medical care if you have signs of postpartum preeclampsia, such as severe headaches, vision changes, severe belly pain, nausea and vomiting. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which information is
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unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Coping and supportDiscovering that you have a potentially serious pregnancy complication can be frightening. If you're diagnosed with preeclampsia late in your pregnancy, you may be surprised to learn that immediate delivery may be recommended. If you're diagnosed earlier in your pregnancy, you may be concerned about monitoring signs and symptoms at home and keeping more frequent appointments with your primary care provider. It may help to learn more about your condition. In addition to talking to your provider, do some research. Make sure you understand when to call your provider and how to monitor signs and symptoms. Preparing for your appointmentPreeclampsia is often diagnosed during a regularly scheduled prenatal appointment. If your primary care provider recommends certain tests for a preeclampsia diagnosis, you may also be discussing some of the following questions:
After a diagnosis of preeclampsia and at follow-up appointments, you might ask the following questions:
Which nursing intervention is a priority for a client with severe preeclampsia?Controlling blood pressure is the optimal intervention to prevent deaths due to stroke in women with preeclampsia (Wisner, 2019). Prompt treatment to lower BP can decrease maternal morbidity and mortality.
Which nursing intervention is most important for a client with severe preeclampsia who is receiving intravenous IV magnesium sulfate?The answer is D: The antidote for Magnesium Sulfate is Calcium Gluconate. The nurse should have this on hand in case Magnesium toxicity occurs.
Which nursing intervention is most effective in preventing a seizure in a client with severe preeclampsia?Medication to prevent seizures.
Magnesium sulfate can help prevent seizures in women with postpartum preeclampsia who have severe signs and symptoms. Magnesium sulfate is typically taken for 24 hours.
What are nursing safety measures to prevent pre eclampsia?How can I prevent preeclampsia:. Use little or no added salt in your meals.. Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day.. Avoid fried foods and junk food.. Get enough rest.. Exercise regularly.. Elevate your feet several times during the day.. Avoid drinking alcohol.. Avoid beverages containing caffeine.. |