All of the following are the measures to prevent eclampsia in pregnancy EXCEPT :

IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Medium

Appeared in: IGNOU PB. Bsc. Nsg. Entrance-2025

Explanation

The question asks to identify the option that is NOT a measure to prevent eclampsia.
Administration of folic acid is the correct answer because its primary role during pregnancy is to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus and megaloblastic anemia in the mother.
While crucial for pregnancy, folic acid supplementation has not been shown to prevent the development of preeclampsia or its progression to eclampsia.
The other options are all established methods for the early detection and management of preeclampsia, which is the direct way to prevent eclampsia.

Option A: This is a primary and essential measure. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is crucial for the early detection of hypertension, a hallmark sign of preeclampsia. Early detection allows for timely management to prevent progression to eclampsia.
Option B: This is a core strategy in modern obstetrics. Identifying women with risk factors for preeclampsia (like previous history, chronic hypertension, or multiple gestations) allows for increased surveillance and prophylactic treatments, thereby preventing eclampsia.
Option D: This is a general but important recommendation. A balanced diet helps maintain a healthy weight, supports vascular health, and provides essential nutrients, all of which contribute to a lower risk of pregnancy complications, including hypertensive disorders.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Preventive measures for eclampsia in pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's primary role in antenatal care is monitoring, detection, and education. You must be vigilant in checking BP and urine, and educating patients on the warning signs of preeclampsia.
Patient education is critical. A patient who understands the danger of a persistent headache or visual disturbances is more likely to seek timely care, which can be life-saving.
What if? If a patient with known risk factors for preeclampsia reports a new-onset severe headache and 'seeing spots', the nurse's priority action is to immediately assess her blood pressure and notify the physician, not just advise her to take a pain reliever. This indicates a potential progression to severe preeclampsia.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the keywords in the question: 'prevent eclampsia' and the negative lead 'EXCEPT'. This means you are looking for the option that does NOT help prevent eclampsia.
Second, recall the pathophysiology of eclampsia. It is the convulsive stage of preeclampsia. Therefore, preventing eclampsia means preventing or managing preeclampsia.
Third, evaluate each option's role in relation to preeclampsia management.
Option A (BP monitoring) is a direct screening tool for preeclampsia.
Option B (high-risk screening) is a strategy to focus preventive efforts.
Option D (balanced diet) is a general health measure that can reduce risks.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Preventive measures for eclampsia in pregnancy.
Stem keywords: measures, prevent, eclampsia, pregnancy
Lead-in keywords: EXCEPT
Negative lead-in flag: The question uses the word 'EXCEPT', asking for the option that is NOT a preventive measure for eclampsia.

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