1. Preeclampsia is a common problem during pregnancy. The condition — sometimes
referred to as pregnancy-induced hypertension — is defined by high blood pressure and
excess protein in the urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Often, preeclampsia causes only
modest increases in blood pressure. Left untreated, however, preeclampsia can lead to
serious — even fatal — complications for both mother and baby.
A. Mild Preeclampsia
• BP of 140/90
• 1+ to 2+ proteinuria on random
• weight gain of 2 lbs per week on the 2nd trimester and 1 lb per week on the 3rd
trimester
• Slight edema in upper extremities and face
B. Severe Preeclampsia
• BP of 160/110
• 3-4+ protenuria on random
• Oliguria (less than 500 ml/24 hrs)
• Cerebral or visual disturbances
• Epigastric pain
• Pulmonary edema
• Peripheral edema
• Hepatic dysfunction
Eclampsia is an extension of preeclampsia and is characterized by the client
experiencing seizures.
NURSING MANAGEMENT
1. Monitor for, and promote the resolution of, complications.
o Monitor vital signs and FHR.
o Minimize external stimuli; promote rest and relaxation
o Measure and record urine output, protein level, and specific gravity.
o Assess for edema of face, arms, hands, legs, ankles, and feet. Also assess
for pulmonary edema.
o Weigh the client daily.
o Assess deep tendon reflexes every 4 hours.
o Assess for placental separation, headache and visual disturbance,
epigastric pain, and altered level of consciousness.
Test Findings
Blood >40%
Hematocrit
?5.5 mg/dL
2. Renal Function >6.0 mg/dL (severe PIH)
Serum uric acid
?1.0 mg/dL
Creatinine 2.0-3.0 md/dL (severe PIH)
Creatinine clearance <150 mL/min
BUN 8-10 mg/dL (severe PIH)
10-16 mg/dL (severe PIH)
Coagulation
Platelets <100,000 mL (severe PIH)
Fibrin degradation products ?16 µg/mL (severe PIH)
2. Provide treatment as prescribed.
o Mild preeclampsia treatment consists of bed rest in left lateral recumbent
position, balanced diet with moderate to high protein and low to moderate
sodium, and administration of magnesium sulfate
o Severe preeclampsia treatment consists of complete bed rest, balanced diet
with high protein and low to moderate sodium, administration of sulfate,
fluid and electrolyte replacements and sedative hypertensives such as
diazepam or phenobarbital or an anticonvulsant such as phenytoin
o Eclampsia treatment consists of administration of magnesium sulfate
intravenously
3. Institute seizure precautions. Seizures may occur up to 72 hours after delivery.
4. Address emotional and psychosocial needs.
