What does eclampsia mean?

Appeared in: MP CHO -2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Eclampsia is defined as the new onset of tonic-clonic, focal, or multifocal seizures in a woman with pre-eclampsia.
Pre-eclampsia is a precursor to eclampsia, characterized by hypertension (BP greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg) and proteinuria (or other signs of end-organ damage) after 20 weeks of gestation.
The key differentiator that defines eclampsia is the presence of convulsions, which are not attributable to other causes like epilepsy.
Therefore, the combination of pre-eclampsia and convulsions accurately defines the condition of eclampsia.

Option B: The combination of hypertension and diabetes describes two distinct medical conditions that can complicate pregnancy but does not define eclampsia. Gestational diabetes is a condition of glucose intolerance during pregnancy.
Option C: Hypertension and severe anaemia are separate conditions. While anaemia can be a concern in pregnancy, its combination with hypertension is not the definition of eclampsia.
Option D: While hypertension and oedema (swelling) are classic signs of pre-eclampsia, they are not sufficient to diagnose eclampsia. Many women with pre-eclampsia have these signs but do not have seizures.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition and characteristics of eclampsia, a severe hypertensive disorder of pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Eclampsia is a life-threatening obstetric emergency for both the mother and the fetus, with risks including placental abruption, stroke, organ failure, and death.
The primary nursing responsibility is prompt recognition of pre-eclampsia symptoms and immediate, decisive action if a seizure occurs, focusing on airway management, patient safety, and administration of magnesium sulfate.
The definitive treatment for eclampsia is delivery of the fetus and placenta, which is planned as soon as the mother is stabilized.

How to Approach the Question

This is a direct recall question asking for the definition of a medical term.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'eclampsia'.
Recall the definition of eclampsia and its relationship to pre-eclampsia. Remember that 'eclampsia' adds the critical component of seizures to 'pre-eclampsia'.
Evaluate each option against this definition.
Option A directly states 'Pre-eclampsia + Convulsion', which matches the definition.
Options B, C, and D combine hypertension with other conditions (diabetes, anaemia, oedema) that are not the defining feature of eclampsia, making them incorrect.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Definition and characteristics of eclampsia, a severe hypertensive disorder of pregnancy.
Stem keywords: eclampsia, mean
Lead-in keywords: What does
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 30-50

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 1296-1298

Practise the full MP CHO -2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.