Preeclampsia: Major Complications and the Role of Nursing in Reducing Maternal Mortality

Preeclampsia was identified as one of the most serious complications of pregnancy, especially after 20 weeks of gestation. It was characterized by arterial hypertension (above 140/90 mmHg), presence of protein in the urine and damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys and central nervous system. This condition was recognized as one of the main causes of maternal-perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. According to WHO, the incidence of preeclampsia ranged between 3% and 10% of pregnancies, being more common in nulliparous women and more prevalent in developing countries. In the Latin American context, preeclampsia was reported to be the leading cause of maternal death, with alarming figures in countries such as Peru, where prevalence reached 13% in 2022, and a high percentage of perinatal mortality due to severe complications. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics estimated that more than 76,000 women died from hypertension complications in 2018. In Mexico, hypertension during pregnancy was responsible for numerous complications, affecting between 250,000 and 300,000 pregnant women annually, with more than 1,000 deaths. Management of preeclampsia included strict monitoring of maternal and fetal vital signs, the use of medications such as magnesium sulfate and corticosteroids to promote fetal development, and urgent medical intervention if the situation required it. Nurses played a key role in comprehensive care, through assessment, care planning and emotional support to families, which contributed to reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this complication