Question

30. Differentiate between pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. Please include definitions, signs and symptoms, treatment, nursing considerations and interventions.(A chart might be helpful)
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Answer 1

Answer: Preeclampsia is a state of high blood pressure, low platelets counts and increased protein in the urine during the 20th week of pregnancy. The exact cause of preeclampsia is unknown but many factors are responsible for the disease such as genetic factors, autoimmune disorders etc. Many other factors are also responsible such as obesity, being over the age of 35 etc. The symptoms include such as sudden weight gain, persistent headache, change in vision etc. The treatment includes as at the time of delivery the physician check the health condition of the mother as well as the baby. I.V. medications are generally given to control the high blood pressure and steriods given to strengthen the lungs of the baby.

Eclampsia is rare but serious condition where high blood pressure results in seizures during pregnancy and it is a severe complication of preeclampsia. The cause may be the high blood pressure, an increase of protein the blood and pregnancy with triplets. The symptoms include such as seizures which results into unconsciousness and agitation. Generally, to control the seizure, anticonvulsant are being given and medication to lower the blood pressure.

In both the cases nurse should intervene the changes in the fetal heart rate that indicate distress as to notice the normal functioning. Also, check the symptoms if any of fluid in the lungs etc.