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
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.