Drug of choice of the management of eclampsia is:

IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg.Entrance-2026

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Easy

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg.Entrance-2026

Explanation

Magnesium sulphate is the internationally recognized drug of choice for treating and preventing seizures in eclampsia.
It acts as a neuroprotector by stabilizing cell membranes, reducing acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, and blocking NMDA receptors in the brain.
Clinical trials have proven its superiority over other anticonvulsants like phenytoin and diazepam, showing a significantly lower rate of recurrent seizures.
It also has a secondary benefit of causing mild vasodilation, which can help in lowering blood pressure, although this is not its primary function in eclampsia management.

Option A: Labetalol is an antihypertensive medication, not an anticonvulsant. Its role in eclampsia is to manage severe hypertension to prevent complications like stroke, but it does not treat or prevent the seizures themselves.
Option C: Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid. It is used in pregnancy to accelerate fetal lung maturity when preterm delivery is anticipated, typically before 34 weeks of gestation. It has no role in seizure control.
Option D: Dopamine is a vasopressor and inotrope used to manage severe hypotension and shock by increasing heart rate and blood pressure. Eclampsia is a hypertensive disorder, so administering a vasopressor would be contraindicated and dangerous.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Pharmacological management of eclampsia helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
The nurse's primary responsibility during magnesium sulphate therapy is vigilant monitoring for signs of toxicity, as the therapeutic window is narrow. Key assessments include respiratory rate, deep tendon reflexes (patellar reflex), and urine output.
Immediate intervention is critical if toxicity is suspected. The nurse must be prepared to stop the infusion and administer the antidote, calcium gluconate, as per protocol to prevent respiratory or cardiac arrest.
Patient education is important. The nurse should explain to the patient and family the purpose of the medication and the common, non-toxic side effects like flushing, warmth, and sweating, to reduce anxiety.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: it asks for the 'drug of choice' for 'eclampsia'. This is a direct recall question testing knowledge of a first-line treatment.
Recall the definition of eclampsia: a severe complication of preeclampsia characterized by new-onset seizures.
Evaluate the options based on their primary pharmacological action in the context of pregnancy and seizures.
Option A (Labetalol) is an antihypertensive. While used in eclampsia, it doesn't treat seizures.
Option B (Magnesium sulphate) is known as the primary anticonvulsant for eclampsia.
Option C (Dexamethasone) is a steroid for fetal lung maturity.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 33-53