Keywords

cardiovascular disease, gestational hypertension, HELLP syndrome, hypertension, peripartum cardiomyopathy, preeclampsia, pregnancy, pregnancy complications, prenatal care

Authors

1. Maheu-Cadotte, Marc-Andre BSc, RN
2. Pepin, Catherine BSc, RN
3. Lavallee, Andreane BSc, RN
4. Hupe, Catherine MSN, RN
5. Mailhot, Tanya PhD, RN
6. Duchaine, Caroline BSc, RN
7. Fontaine, Guillaume MSc, RN

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and peripartum cardiomyopathy are among the most common and often severe pregnancy-specific cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and causes of complications in pregnancy. This clinical review provides nurses with an overview of pregnancy-specific CVDs, outlines their pathophysiology, and discusses risk factors and assessment. It describes management interventions according to timing: the antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum phases are each addressed.