Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

Rationale

Pregnancy may be complicated by pre-existent chronic hypertension, the onset of preeclampsia, eclampsia, or gestational hypertension. Hypertension in pregnancy may be life-threatening for both mother and baby.

Causal Conditions

(list not exhaustive)

1. Chronic hypertension with or without preeclampsia or eclampsia
2. Gestational hypertension with or without preeclampsia or eclampsia

Key Objectives

Given a pregnant patient with hypertension and/or proteinuria, the candidate will diagnose hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, as well as their causes, severity, and complications, and will initiate an appropriate management plan. In particular, the candidate will identify and take urgent action in cases of preeclampsia or eclampsia.

Enabling Objectives

Given a pregnant patient with a hypertensive disorder, the candidate will

1. list and interpret critical clinical findings, including
   1. diagnose the presence of preeclampsia or eclampsia;
2. list and interpret critical clinical and laboratory findings, including
   1. appropriate urine and hematologic investigations;
3. construct an effective plan of management, including
   1. urgent measures for the treatment of preeclampsia and eclampsia;
   2. refer the patient for specialized care if necessary.