Research strongly suggests that maternal deaths due to pre-eclampsia/eclampsia are almost entirely preventable with timely and effective care, including the administration of antihypertensive medications to control blood pressure, magnesium sulfate to prevent eclampsia (seizures), and eventual delivery of the newborn. However, a patient’s lack of understanding of the signs and symptoms of the disease can impact her likelihood of seeking timely care. Recent research from the analysis of state-level maternal mortality by the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative emphasizes that patient understanding of symptoms and the severity of the disease is crucial for improving outcomes and preventing maternal death…read more