Presented By: Julie Vasher, DNP, RNC-OB, CNS, C-EFM
November 2016

Appropriate interventions for severe hypertension in pregnancy have been clearly defined by leading obstetric organizations, yet there continues to be delays in treatment as well as a lack of understanding as to the appropriate first line interventions. Hypertension in pregnancy is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity. Timely recognition and treatment or response to severe hypertension is key to decrease the incidence of negative outcomes associated with hypertension and pregnancy. Identification of severe range blood pressure can be a challenge in itself. Effective communication between members of the healthcare team is imperative to initiate the appropriate intervention. We review recommendations for treatment as well as potential strategies to improve communication between healthcare team members.

Objectives:

• Review components of appropriate blood pressure measurement along with common mistakes
• Identify appropriate parameters for hypertension treatment along with strategies for effective communication
• Discuss recommended first line treatment for new onset severe hypertension