Which blood pressure reading would indicate mild rather than severe preeclampsia?

Mild preeclampsia is generally characterized by a blood pressure reading that meets specific criteria. The diagnosis often involves a systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or greater, and a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or greater. However, the parameters for distinguishing between mild and severe preeclampsia depend on both the systolic and diastolic values.

In this case, a reading of 145/95 mm Hg indicates mild preeclampsia because it falls within this range without crossing into the severe category. Severe preeclampsia is typically diagnosed when blood pressure readings reach 160/110 mm Hg or higher and is associated with more severe clinical signs and symptoms.

The significance of identifying mild versus severe preeclampsia is crucial for managing the patient appropriately, as the risks associated with severe preeclampsia can lead to more immediate medical intervention and close monitoring. Recognizing the threshold effectively informs nursing care, patient education, and potential treatment strategies to mitigate risks to both the mother and fetus.