Complications of Pregnancy: Hypertensive and Hemorrhagic Disorders

These flashcards cover key concepts related to hypertensive and hemorrhagic disorders during pregnancy, including definitions, treatments, risk factors, and nursing roles.

What are the key learning objectives regarding hypertensive disorders during pregnancy?

Examine anatomy, physiology, etiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, treatment, and nursing roles regarding hypertensive disorders.

What physiological changes accompany pregnancy that impact blood pressure?

Decrease in vascular resistance, vasodilation from hormones, expansion of blood volume via the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System, and increased stroke volume and renal blood flow.

Differentiate between chronic hypertension and gestational hypertension during pregnancy.

Chronic hypertension is BP>140/90 before 20 weeks; gestational hypertension is BP>140/90 after 20 weeks without proteinuria.

Name pharmacological treatments approved for managing hypertension in pregnancy.

Aspirin, Methyldopa, Labetalol, Nifedipine, Hydralazine, and Thiazide Diuretics.

What is preeclampsia and how does it affect a previously normotensive woman?

Preeclampsia is characterized by increased blood pressure after 20 weeks gestation with proteinuria or organ dysfunction.

Identify the risk factors for developing preeclampsia.

Nulliparity, multiple gestation, previous preeclampsia, chronic hypertension, diabetes, high prepregnancy BMI, age >35, kidney disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

What are the severe features of preeclampsia?

Blood pressure ≥ 160/110, low platelets, elevated creatinine, high liver enzymes, new onset headache unresponsive to medication, and pulmonary edema.

Discuss how gestational diabetes management differs from pregestational diabetes management.

Gestational diabetes management often includes diet modifications, glucose monitoring, and possibly insulin therapy with appropriate adjustments during pregnancy.

What are common lab tests involved in diagnosing hypertensive disorders in pregnancy?

Blood pressure readings, urinalysis for protein, and maternal and fetal testing.

Explain the role of a nurse when caring for patients with hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.

Interventions include monitoring blood pressure, teaching about nutrition and weight management, ensuring medication adherence, and managing stress.

What complications arise from placental abruption during pregnancy?

Dark bleeding, painful firm uterus, potential maternal and fetal distress, and the need for emergency management.

Differentiate between eclampsia and preeclampsia.

Eclampsia involves seizures, while preeclampsia includes increased blood pressure and proteinuria without seizures.

List potential psychological impacts on clients experiencing hypertensive disorders in pregnancy.

Increased anxiety, emotional distress, and concerns over maternal and fetal health.

How can the nurse support a client experiencing pregnancy loss?

By offering emotional support, assessing coping mechanisms, and educating on the procedure and implications.