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CE: Preeclampsia: Current Approaches to Nursing Management.
Cindy M Anderson1, Mandy J Schmella
1Cindy M. Anderson is an associate professor and an associate dean for academic affairs and educational innovation at the Ohio State University College of Nursing, Columbus, and a member of the medical advisory board of the Preeclampsia Foundation. Mandy J. Schmella is an assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, PA. Both authors contributed equally to the development of this article. Contact author: Cindy M. Anderson, anderson.2765@osu.edu. The authors and planners have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Preeclampsia, a pregnancy hypertensive disorder, is a complex condition beyond just high blood pressure and protein in urine. Understanding its varied presentation and pathophysiology is key for effective screening, diagnosis, and management.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
Background:
- Preeclampsia is traditionally defined by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks' gestation.
- It is now recognized as a complex, progressive, multisystem disorder with variable presentations.
- Potentially life-threatening complications underscore the need for updated understanding and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current clinical practices for preeclampsia risk assessment, prediction, and management.
- To discuss the pathophysiology of preeclampsia.
- To provide resources for healthcare providers on preeclampsia.
Main Methods:
- Clinical update and review of current literature.
- Discussion of refined diagnostic criteria by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Task Force on Hypertension in Pregnancy.
- Exploration of emerging targets for screening, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment based on defined pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Refined diagnostic criteria for preeclampsia have been established.
- A clearer definition of preeclampsia pathogenesis has emerged.
- New targets for clinical intervention are being identified.
Conclusions:
- Preeclampsia requires a comprehensive understanding beyond traditional definitions.
- Updated diagnostic criteria and a focus on pathophysiology are crucial for improved patient outcomes.
- Effective risk assessment, prediction, and management strategies are essential for addressing this complex disorder.