North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

Preeclampsia can cause which of the following symptoms?

1. Increased energy levels

2. Hypertension

3. Low heart rate

4. Excessive sweating

The correct answer is: Hypertension

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition characterized by the onset of high blood pressure and often accompanied by other symptoms. The hallmark symptom of preeclampsia is hypertension, which typically develops after the 20th week of gestation and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. This condition reflects a dysfunction in the cardiovascular system that affects both the mother and the fetus. Increased energy levels are not associated with preeclampsia; rather, women may experience fatigue due to the condition. A low heart rate is also not a symptom of preeclampsia; in fact, hypertension often correlates with a higher heart rate due to increased strain on the cardiovascular system. Excessive sweating is not a common symptom of preeclampsia, which typically presents with signs like headaches, changes in vision, and abdominal pain in addition to hypertension. Thus, recognizing hypertension as the primary symptom of preeclampsia is crucial for timely identification and management, ensuring the safety of both the mother and the developing baby.