Which of the following indicates urgent evaluation for a patient showing signs of preeclampsia?

Which of the following indicates urgent evaluation for a patient showing signs of preeclampsia?

• A. Moderate swelling of the hands only
• B. New onset of hypertension with symptoms of visual disturbances
• C. Stable blood pressure with headache
• D. Normal urine output

Answer: (B)

The presence of new onset hypertension accompanied by symptoms of visual disturbances is a critical indication for urgent evaluation in a patient showing signs of preeclampsia. Visual disturbances, which can include blurry vision, spots, or flashes of light, represent potential end-organ dysfunction and an elevated risk for severe complications associated with preeclampsia, such as eclampsia, stroke, or other adverse outcomes for both the mother and the fetus. In the context of managing preeclampsia, the combination of new hypertension and neurological symptoms heightens the concern for severe disease progression. Immediate assessment and intervention are necessary to manage the condition effectively and to mitigate risks. Thus, when a patient presents with these specific symptoms, it underscores the criticality of rapid evaluation and potential treatment to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.

The presence of new onset hypertension accompanied by symptoms of visual disturbances is a critical indication for urgent evaluation in a patient showing signs of preeclampsia. Visual disturbances, which can include blurry vision, spots, or flashes of light, represent potential end-organ dysfunction and an elevated risk for severe complications associated with preeclampsia, such as eclampsia, stroke, or other adverse outcomes for both the mother and the fetus.

In the context of managing preeclampsia, the combination of new hypertension and neurological symptoms heightens the concern for severe disease progression. Immediate assessment and intervention are necessary to manage the condition effectively and to mitigate risks. Thus, when a patient presents with these specific symptoms, it underscores the criticality of rapid evaluation and potential treatment to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.