Pre-eclampsia is a condition that occurs in the second half of pregnancy. It has many symptoms and can be life-threatening for both mother and baby if left untreated. Pre-eclampsia also causes significant complications for babies after birth, including low blood pressure called “neonatal hypovolemia” (blood loss) and serious brain damage called “lung immaturity” (lungs not fully developed). This article will help you understand what pre-eclampsia is, how it’s treated, its effects on the baby at birth, and how to prevent it from occurring again in future pregnancies.

Pre Eclampsia Nursing Interventions

1. Patient education is important.

The nurse should provide continuous education to the patient regarding their condition. The nurse would discuss with the patient what to expect, when symptoms may occur, and what they should do if they get worse or improve. The nurse needs to explain that preeclampsia is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention if there is any change in blood pressure or infusion of magnesium sulfate is needed.

2. Nutritional supplementation with calcium and magnesium, if indicated.

Calcium and magnesium are both important for the health of the baby, mother and fetus. Calcium is needed for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth, while magnesium is needed for developing brain and nervous system. Both calcium and magnesium play an important role in maintaining blood pressure within normal limits.

If you have preeclampsia you will most likely be advised to take additional supplements of both calcium (1-2g/day) and magnesium (300mg/day). If you develop eclamptic convulsions then you may need intravenous medications to control your blood pressure (e.g., hydralazine).

3. Encourage patient to record fetal movements as often as possible.

Encourage patient to record fetal movements as often as possible.

If there is a decrease in fetal movements, contact the doctor.

Fetal movements are important in the first trimester, second trimester, and third trimester of pregnancy.

4. Promote rest and relaxation.

Rest is very important for the mother and the baby. The mother needs to rest physically as well as mentally after delivery of her baby and during this time, she should try to get as much rest as possible. Rest will help her heal from the stress of childbirth and relieve any pain or discomfort that she may be experiencing.

Additionally, it is very important for a new mother’s body to have plenty of time to recover from the physical exertion involved in birth; therefore it is recommended that she take an adequate amount of rest each day.

5. Monitor pulmonary status.

Monitor respiratory status.

• Monitor respiratory rate and depth.
• Observe for signs of respiratory distress, such as grunting, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), accessory muscle use, and orthopnea (difficulty breathing lying down).
• If respiratory distress occurs: Call for medical assistance. Administer oxygen as needed.

6. Maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.

Maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.

You can maintain the fluid and electrolyte balance of the pregnant patient by using special drinks that are high in sodium (salt), potassium, or calcium as needed. Theses drinks will help prevent complications such as muscle weakness, cramps, heart palpitations, and seizures.

7. Know what to expect and what your options are when pre-eclampsia occurs during pregnancy.

• Know what to expect and what your options are when pre-eclampsia occurs during pregnancy.
• Know what the signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia are.
• Understand how to care for the woman’s body in order to prevent complications.

Closing

Pre-eclampsia can be a life-threatening condition for both mother and baby. It is important to treat it early and aggressively in order to prevent long-term complications.