What it means
Preeclampsia can first appear after birth, most often within 48 hours but up to about 6 weeks later, even in a client whose blood pressure was normal in pregnancy. It is diagnosed by a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or higher with protein in the urine or signs of organ involvement, such as a severe headache, vision changes, pain in the upper right abdomen or shortness of breath. Like preeclampsia in pregnancy, it can lead to seizures (eclampsia) and stroke.
For the nurse
Before discharge, teach every postpartum client the warning signs and to call or come in at once for a severe headache that does not go away, vision changes, upper abdominal pain or trouble breathing. Treatment may include blood pressure drugs and magnesium sulfatemag-NEE-zee-um SUL-fateA magnesium salt given by IV or IM to raise a low magnesium level or prevent seizures in severe preeclampsia.Full entry .
At a glance
| Also written | postpartum pre-eclampsia |
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Related terms
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
postpartum
The time after giving birth, usually the first six weeks, while the body returns to its non-pregnant state.
preeclampsia
A disorder of pregnancy, starting after 20 weeks, that affects the blood vessels and organs such as the kidneys, liver and brain.
magnesium sulfate
A magnesium salt given by IV or IM to raise a low magnesium level or prevent seizures in severe preeclampsia.