Pharmacological Intervention of Pre-Eclampsia and Eclampsia: A case study of a tertiary health institution in Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

Blood pressure is an important parameter in monitoring pregnancy. Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia are major causes of poor gestational outcome in tropical Africa. This research was carried out to ascertain if the management of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia in Nigeria is in line with global recent advances. A retrospective data collection and evaluation protocol was used. Eighty-eight patient files (sixty-two with eclampsia and twenty-six with pre-eclampsia) presented over a period of four years (Jan 2004- Dec 2007). Parity, age, stage of pregnancy, occupation, blood pressure range (before and after pharmacological intervention) and drugs used in managing both conditions were evaluated. The highest incidence occurred in first pregnancies, young maternal age, third trimester and full-time house wives. Blood pressures were observed to decrease with drug use and after delivery of the fetus and placenta. The study was in line with global recent advances. It revealed the need for closer evaluation of pharmacological intervention for eclampsia and pre-eclampsia to ensure better fetal and maternal health outcomes as stated in the 4th and 5th Millennium Development Goals.