Monitoring intra-abdominal pressure for early detection of preeclampsia among pregnant women

Abstract

Background: Elevated intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) is commonly present in critically ill patients. Where the trigger mechanism of preeclampsia is related to increase abdominal hypertension. Aim: Monitoring the intra-abdominal pressure for early detection of preeclampsia among pregnant women. Design: A quasi-experiment clinical practice research. Methods: a sample of 60 pregnant women divided into an intervention group included a total of 30 patients diagnosed with preeclampsia and 30 normotensives as a control group. Setting: The study conducted at obstetric ICU and emergency unit, woman's Health Hospital, Upper Egypt. Results: There is a statistically significant difference between intra-abdominal pressure and preeclampsia and its clinical feature. The risk factors' effects on intra-abdominal pressure, such as age and gravidity, have no statistically significant relationship. Conclusions: The study confirms that the range of intra-abdominal pressure in the preeclamptic group significantly higher than the normotensive group, and there is a positive correlation between elevated IAP and preeclamptic complications. Relevance to clinical practice: Applied continuous nursing monitoring of intra-abdominal pressure for all critical patients in the obstetric field is an essential part of nursing care to avoid abdominal compartment syndrome and organ complications.