Performed daily to every other day. Antepartum surveillance including daily fetal movement count, daily NSTs, and weekly amniotic fluid determinations by ultrasonography is essential. Monitor symptoms such as headache, visual disturbances, epigastric pain. Delivery is treatment of choice. Delivery should be accomplished when the fetus is mature but may be required early if maternal health is in danger or if there is evidence of fetal distress.
Delivery is indicated when the patient meets criteria for severe preeclampsia.
12.5 mg IM given twice 24 hours apart to stimulate fetal lung maturation can be repeated weekly if pregnancy is prolonged. Electronic FHR monitoring during labor is indicated. Aim for a diastolic BP 90 to 100 mm Hg. Avoid overcorrection because normal blood pressures can result in placental hypoperfusion. Diuretics are never indicated.