The Effect of Patient Education on Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a serious disorder of pregnancy that is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Research suggests that women do not receive appropriate education on this hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. A lack of education can put mothers at risk for late diagnoses, future health complications, cesarean sections, and premature births. This scholarly project was conducted to examine the effects of education on pregnant patients and to determine whether education leads to better outcomes for those diagnosed with preeclampsia. This project also examines the most effective ways to provide this education to patients and their families. A review of current literature was conducted on scholarly, peer-reviewed articles. The literature included randomized controlled trials, a focus group study, quantitative research, a meta-analysis, and a systematic review. The evidence concluded that educational tools led to increased knowledge about preeclampsia without increasing patient anxiety about it. Providing patient education led to early antenatal care visits, the identification of future health complications, and patient recognition of warning signs, ultimately improving morbidity mortality rates. Furthermore, studies concluded that brochures, mobile apps, online communities, and teach-back were all effective means of educating patients. This scholarly project supports the use of education about preeclampsia in pregnant patients. This information should be used to implement educational programs and tools into patient care to potentially reduce the risks of preeclampsia, future health effects, and morbidity and mortality rates.