Question

A 27-year-old G2P1 woman at 36 weeks gestation is admitted with severe preeclampsia. Her blood pressure is 200/105. She has received two doses of IV hydralazine to lower her blood pressure. What diastolic blood pressure should you aim for in this patient?

A. 50-55 mm Hg
B. 60-65 mm Hg
C. 70-75 mm Hg
D. 80-85 mm Hg
E. 90-95 mm Hg

Answer 1

For a 27-year-old woman with severe preeclampsia at 36 weeks gestation, the target diastolic blood pressure should be 80-85 mm Hg, which maintains sufficient blood flow and reduces the risks associated with high blood pressure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The goal for the management of severe preeclampsia in a pregnant woman is to lower high blood pressure in a controlled manner. While the recommended blood pressure is typically less than 140/90 mmHg, it is important not to lower the diastolic blood pressure too much to ensure adequate perfusion to the placenta. The diastolic blood pressure should be lowered to a safe level but not below 60 mmHg to avoid potential complications. Therefore, the target diastolic blood pressure should be 80-85 mm Hg (answer D), which is considered optimal for reducing risks associated with high blood pressure while maintaining sufficient blood flow.