Preeclampsia, Eclampsia and HELLP

Course Overview

This Course will address the clinical significance and management of preeclampsia and its complications. A real-life case study will also be presented to reinforce the information presented in this activity.

Topics

• What can go wrong in pregnancy?;
• Overview of preeclampsia, eclampsia and HELLP syndrome;
• Treatment options;
• Management and mode of delivery.

Need

Midwives may be the first to identify preeclampsia and must be alert to this potentially dangerous condition and how to prevent complications. The midwife is likely to have to undertake the emergency management of this condition and any complications.

Purpose

The purpose of this Course is to familiarise health professionals with the clinical significance and management of the woman affected by preeclampsia and its complications.

Learning Outcomes

• State the features of preeclampsia, eclampsia and HELLP.
• Explain both the prophylactic and curative treatment of preeclampsia.
• Identify the particular risk factors for preeclampsia.
• List the complications of preeclampsia and differential diagnosis.

Target Audience

Predominantly designed for midwives, but may also be applicable to other health practitioners working in a setting whereby they may encounter a woman with preeclampsia

Disclosure

No conflict of interest exists for anyone in the position to control content for this activity. Wherever possible, generic or non-proprietary names of medications or products have been used.

Educator

Graeme Dennerstein

Dr Dennerstein is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with medical expertise in the health of the vulva and vagina. He is the former Head of the Dermo-gynaecology Clinic at The Mercy Hospital for Women and co-author of the book entitled: The Vulva and Vagina Manual. He has lectured extensively on this topic, both internationally and nationally. Graeme has extensive experience in family planning and reproductive health. In 1971 he established the Family Planning and Infertility Clinic at the Western General Hospital in Melbourne, serving as its director until 1986. From 1980 to 1989 he was the Honorary Secretary for the Medical Advisory Committee of the Family Planning Association of Victoria.  He is a member of the Sexual Health Society of Victoria Inc. and is widely published. He has, for example, produced several papers on the use of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA). Currently the President of the Victorian branch of Sustainable Population Australia. See Educator Profile