What is preeclampsia? Mind Map Write My Essay Today: No1 Essay Writing Service AU for Your Academic Papers – Guide
Posted: February 16th, 2023
1. What is preeclampsia?
2. Signs and symptoms
3. Risks factors and complications
4. Treatment
5. what is the diagnosis for it.
6. Nursing action or intervention
Preeclampsia: A Comprehensive Write My Essay Today: No1 Essay Writing Service AU for Your Academic Papers – Guide for Expecting Mothers
As an expert in the field of maternal health, I am here to discuss a serious pregnancy complication that affects millions of women around the world – preeclampsia. In this article, I will cover everything you need to know about this condition, from its signs and symptoms to its potential risks and complications, diagnosis, and nursing interventions.
What is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that occurs after 20 weeks of gestation and is characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys. The condition is also commonly associated with the presence of protein in the urine. Preeclampsia affects between 2-8% of pregnancies worldwide and is a leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of preeclampsia can vary from woman to woman, and some women may not experience any symptoms at all. However, the most common signs and symptoms include:
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Proteinuria (protein in the urine)
Swelling of the hands and face
Headaches
Blurred vision
Nausea or vomiting
Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Risk Factors and Complications
Several factors can increase the risk of developing preeclampsia, including:
A history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy
First pregnancy
Age (women under 20 or over 40 are at higher risk)
Pre-existing medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease
Multiple pregnancies (twins or triplets)
If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to several complications, including:
Placental abruption (separation of the placenta from the uterus)
Premature birth
Fetal growth restriction
HELLP syndrome (a rare and life-threatening complication that affects the liver and blood clotting)
Eclampsia (a severe form of preeclampsia characterized by seizures)
Treatment
The only definitive treatment for preeclampsia is delivery. However, if the pregnancy is not at full term, the healthcare provider may recommend medications to control blood pressure and prevent seizures. The most commonly used medications for preeclampsia include magnesium sulfate, antihypertensive drugs, and corticosteroids.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of preeclampsia is based on the presence of hypertension (blood pressure greater than 140/90 mm Hg) and proteinuria (greater than 300mg/24h). However, some women may develop preeclampsia without exhibiting proteinuria. In these cases, the healthcare provider will look for other signs of preeclampsia, such as swelling, headaches, and abnormal liver or kidney function.
Nursing Action or Intervention
As a nurse, it is crucial to monitor women at risk for preeclampsia and educate them about the warning signs and symptoms. The following nursing interventions are essential for managing preeclampsia:
Frequent blood pressure monitoring
Urine protein testing
Fetal monitoring
Medication administration as prescribed
Monitoring for signs of complications
Providing emotional support and education
In conclusion, preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that can have severe consequences for both the mother and the baby. Women at risk of developing preeclampsia should be closely monitored by their healthcare provider and should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any signs or symptoms.
References
Ghossein-Doha C, van Neer J, Wissink B, et al. Preeclampsia: the relationship between uterine artery blood flow and trophoblast function. Obstet Gynecol Surv. 2019;74(1):30-38. doi:10.1097/OGX.0000000000000622
Andrikopoulou M, Purisch SE, Handal-Orefice R, et al. Association of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes With Hypertension 2 to 7 Years Postpartum. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2020;75(18):2332-2344. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2020.03.041
Rolnik DL, Wright D, Poon LC, et al. ASPRE trial: performance of screening for preterm pre-eclampsia. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol. 2017;50(4):492-495. doi:10.1002/uog.17405