A 32-year-old primigravida at 30 weeks' gestation presents with severe headache, visual disturbance and generalised oedema. Blood pressure is 170/112 ...

Question

A 32-year-old primigravida at 30 weeks' gestation presents with severe headache, visual disturbance and generalised oedema. Blood pressure is 170/112 mmHg on two readings 15 minutes apart. Urinalysis shows 3+ protein. The fetus is alive and appropriately grown. What is the most appropriate immediate management of her blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Commence intravenous labetalol to lower blood pressure promptly

Answer

Reassure and review blood pressure in one week

Answer

Start oral hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg daily

Answer

Defer treatment until after emergency caesarean section

Answer

Start angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor therapy

au-racp MCQ (SBA): Hypertensive emergency in pregnancy