Question

Pts with severe preeclampsia are at risk for developing acute pulmonary edema. What can the nurse do to prevent the development of this condition?

1) Administer diuretics
2) Administer anticoagulants
3) Administer bronchodilators
4) Administer antihypertensives

Answer 1

To prevent acute pulmonary edema in patients with severe preeclampsia, administering antihypertensives is the primary intervention. These medications help control blood pressure and reduce the risk of fluid accumulation in the lungs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Patients with severe preeclampsia are at increased risk of developing acute pulmonary edema, which can compromise gas exchange and is potentially life-threatening. The primary approach to prevent acute pulmonary edema involves managing the underlying conditions. In the context of preeclampsia, administering antihypertensives is key to controlling blood pressure and thereby reducing the risk of pulmonary edema.

Diuretics may sometimes be used, but their application must be closely monitored due to the potential impact on the fetal environment and maternal volume status. Anticoagulants and bronchodilators are not typically used in the prevention of pulmonary edema associated with preeclampsia. Instead, antihypertensives reduce the blood pressure and hence the hydrostatic pressure in the pulmonary capillaries, preventing fluid leakage into the lung tissues.