Best practice & research. Clinical obstetrics & gynaecology
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Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are one of the leading causes of peripartum morbidity and mortality globally. Hypertensive disease in pregnancy is associated with a spectrum of severity, ranging from mild pregnancy-induced hypertension to eclampsia. Although most cases of pre-eclampsia may be managed successfully, severe pre-eclampsia is a life-threatening multisystem disease associated with eclampsia, HELLP (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets) syndrome, acute kidney injury, pulmonary oedema, placental abruption and intrauterine foetal death. ⋯ In addition to anti-hypertensive agents, close attention should be given to regular clinical examination, assessment of fluid balance, neurologic status and monitoring of other vital signs. Magnesium sulphate should be considered early to prevent seizures. Delivery of the baby is the definitive management of severe pre-eclampsia.
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Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol · Dec 2013
ReviewProvision of critical care services for the obstetric population.
Management of the peripartum patient is a challenging aspect of critical care that requires consideration of both the physiological changes associated with pregnancy as well as the well-being of the foetus. In the UK, for every maternal death, approximately 118 near-miss events or severe acute maternal morbidities (SAMMs) occur. While a dedicated anaesthetic cover is usually provided on larger labour wards in the UK and US, a close communication with intensive care and other medical specialties must still be maintained. ⋯ The countries with the highest maternal mortality rates have the lowest number of ICU beds per capita. In under-resourced countries, patients admitted to ICUs tend to have higher illness severity scores, suggesting delayed admission to the ICU. The appropriate training of midwives is essential for successful HDUs located within labour wards.