Postnatal care for pre-eclampsia

Question 1

How long should a woman be kept under observation postnatally?

Answer 1

At least 24 hours

This is crucial for monitoring any potential complications.

Question 2

How often should blood pressure be monitored while still an inpatient?

Answer 2

At least 4 times a day

This ensures timely detection of any hypertension issues.

Question 3

Post-discharge, how often should blood pressure be monitored for up to 2 weeks?

Answer 3

Every 1-2 days

Monitoring continues until the woman is off treatment and has no hypertension.

Question 4

What should be done if a woman was taking methyldopa during pregnancy?

Answer 4

Stop within 2 days after birth and change to an alternative agent if necessary

This is important for managing postnatal hypertension.

Question 5

What antihypertensive treatments are safe during breastfeeding?

Answer 5

• Labetalol
• Nifedipine
• Enalapril
• Captopril
• Atenolol
• Metoprolol

Avoid diuretic treatment during breastfeeding.

Question 6

What is the recommended action if blood pressure falls below 130/80 mmHg?

Answer 6

Reduce antihypertensive treatment

This indicates that the treatment may no longer be necessary.

Question 7

When should a follow-up appointment with a GP be arranged postnatally?

Answer 7

At 2 weeks after discharge from hospital

This is for medication review if still on antihypertensive treatment.

Question 8

When should a follow-up appointment be scheduled to ensure resolution of hypertension?

Answer 8

At 6-8 weeks postnatal

This helps confirm that hypertension and proteinuria have resolved.

Question 9

What should be considered if hypertension and proteinuria fail to resolve within 6 weeks?

Answer 9

Diagnosis of chronic hypertension or renal disease

Early intervention may be necessary for these conditions.