2.2 - Pre Eclampsia

Question 1

Explain the signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia for both the mother and fetus

Answer 1

Pre-eclampsia 
Signs and symptoms of: 
Headache 
Proteinuria – makers of kindey damage 
Visual disturbance  
RUQ Pain (hepatic ischaemia) 
Reduced urine output 
Lower abdominal pain 
Placenta abruption 
Clinical examination of pre eclampsia 
SOB – signs of plumonary oedema 
Hepatic tenderness 
Oedema 
Hyper refelxia 
Fetal growth restrictions

Question 2

Incorporating a woman centred approach, explain the midwifery care for women with hypertensive disorders across the continuum, as part of the multi-disciplinary team

Question 3

Identify the medications used in the management of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, describe indications for use, usual dose, therapeutic action and potential side effects

Answer 3

Medication management 
Methydopa 
Labetotol 
Clonidine 
Steroid injection for fetal lung development before week 34 x 2 24 hours in between 
IV magn sulfate (for eclampsia)

Question 4

Stabilisation management for severe PE - control BP.

Answer 4

medications
delivery of the fetus if safe to do so
if early delivery included steroids 24 hours apart before delivery
not an indication for a c-section if baby and mum stable
Placental doppler studies

Question 5

Stabilisation management for severe PE - prevent eclampsia

Question 6

Stabilisation management for severe PE - care of fetus and supportive care

Question 7

Timing of birth and considerations

Question 8

Follow up care

Question 9

Multi-disciplinary team involved in Marta’s care