Master Nursing Interventions for Preeclampsia

Patients may be prescribed an antihypertensive to help lower blood pressure. However, ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are contraindicated due to their effects on fetal development.

Magnesium sulfate, a central nervous system depressant, may be given to prevent or reduce seizure activity. This medication may be continued for 24-48 hours postpartum, and be sure to monitor for signs of magnesium toxicity such as flushing, sweating, hypotension, depressed deep tendon reflexes, and central nervous system depression. Keep the antidote calcium gluconate readily available.

Delivery of the fetus and placenta is the only cure for preeclampsia. Depending on the stage of the pregnancy and the severity of the disease, the physician may choose to induce labor. If less than 34 weeks, corticosteroids may be given to facilitate fetal lung maturity in preparation for preterm labor.