Case of the Month #9 - pre-eclampsia

Published 03/02/2022

What is the management of severe pre-eclampsia/eclampsia?

  • Control BP, aim < 160/110 
    • Labetalol 
    • Nifedipine 
    • Hydralazine 
  • Give IV magnesium sulphate to severe pre-eclamptic women or those with seizures.  
  • Do not use diazepam, phenytoin or other anticonvulsants as alternatives 
  • Limit fluids to 80ml/hr, unless other ongoing losses 
  • Do not routinely use volume expansion 
  • As the pathophysiology is thought to be linked to the placenta, uncontrollable pre-eclampsia may require early delivery. However, symptoms may continue up to 24 hours post delivery.