ECLAMPSIA
Eclampsia is a severe complication of
preeclampsia.
Seizures are periods of disturbed brain activity
that can cause episodes of staring, decreased
alertness, and convulsions (violent shaking).
It’s a rare but serious condition where high
blood pressure results in seizures during
pregnancy.
Because preeclampsia can lead to eclampsia,
you may have symptoms of both conditions.
The following are common symptoms of
eclampsia:
 seizures
 loss of consciousness
 agitation
What causes eclampsia?
Eclampsia often follows preeclampsia, which is
characterized by high blood pressure occurring
in pregnancy and, rarely, postpartum. Other
findings may also be present such as protein in
the urine. If your preeclampsia worsens and
affects your brain, causing seizures, you have
developed eclampsia.
High blood pressure
- It can produce swelling in the blood
vessels in your brain and to your
growing baby. If this abnormal blood
flow through vessels interferes with
your brain’s ability to function, seizures
may occur.
Proteinuria
- High levels of protein in your urine.
- Causes may include relatively harmless
conditions, including dehydration or
intense exercise, or more serious,
including kidney disease or immune
disorders.
Who is at risk for eclampsia?
If you have or have had preeclampsia, you may
be at risk for eclampsia.
Other risk factors for developing eclampsia
during pregnancy include:
- Gestational or chronic hypertension
(high blood pressure)
- Being older than 35 years or
younger than 20 years
- Pregnancy with twins or triplets
- First-time pregnancy
- Diabetes or another condition that
affects your blood vessels
- Kidney disease
How is eclampsia diagnosed?
These test can include:
Blood tests- Has several types of blood tests to
assess your condition. Blood tests will also help
examine your kidney and liver function.
Creatinine test- To a measure of how well your
kidneys are performing their job of filtering
waste from your blood.
Urine tests- To check for the presence of
protein and its excretion rate.
What are the treatments for eclampsia?

The best treatment for eclampsia is giving

birth. If the fetus is 37 weeks gestation or
more, inducing labor is usually the best choice.
You may still have a vaginal delivery if you and
the fetus are stable.

Nursing interventions for eclampsia

Nursing Management

- Monitor blood pressure.

- Assess fetal heart rate.
- Send blood and urine for testing.
- Administer prescribed medications.
- Monitor reflexes on patients on
magnesium sulfate.
- Neurologic checks regularly.
- Seizure precautions if ordered.