Preeclampsia Nursing Management: Complete NCLEX Guide

Classification

• Mild preeclampsia: BP ≥140/90 on two occasions, proteinuria, mild edema
• Severe preeclampsia: BP ≥160/110, proteinuria >5g/24hr, oliguria, visual disturbances, epigastric pain, pulmonary edema
• HELLP Syndrome: Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low Platelets - a variant of severe preeclampsia
• Eclampsia: Preeclampsia + seizures

Magnesium Sulfate Administration

• Loading dose: 4-6g IV over 20-30 minutes
• Maintenance: 1-2g/hr IV
• Therapeutic level: 4-7 mEq/L

Monitoring During MgSO4

• DTRs: Should be present (absent = toxicity)
• Respiratory rate: Must be ≥12/min (hold if <12)
• Urine output: Must be ≥30 mL/hr
• Keep calcium gluconate at bedside (antidote)

Nursing Priorities

• Seizure precautions: padded side rails, suction, O2 at bedside
• Dim lights, quiet environment, limit visitors
• Strict I&O, daily weights
• Fetal monitoring (NST, BPP)
• Prepare for delivery if condition worsens

Study more at Maternal-Newborn cheat sheet and Prenatal & Postpartum deep dive.