Severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia: a broad overview with discussion of the nursing care required for the eclamptic patient.
Severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia are conditions which are rarely seen in A & E departments today. Although the percentage of patients suffering from these conditions is extremely small, the author has been involved in the care and treatment of two patients with this severe complication of pregnancy. A lack of clear guidelines on this subject was the motivation which prompted further study. This paper covers definitions of pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, history, incidence, risks and pathophysiology. The main discussion is the nursing care and treatment of the eclamptic patient in the acute phase of the condition. The author hopes that by the end of this paper it is evident that all health care professionals should be aware of this dangerous condition and know the appropriate treatment to give to ensure the best quality of care possible.
Burnett
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Accident and Emergency Department, Harrogate District Hospital, UK.
D016529:Emergency Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011225:Pre-Eclampsia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology; D011247:Pregnancy; D012307:Risk Factors