KNOWLEDGE OF PREGNANT WOMEN ABOUT PREECLAMPSIA: THE ROLE

Abstract

Preeclampsia is a multifactorial hypertensive disorder of pregnancy and an important cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, which may progress to severe complications when not identified and managed early. In this context, prenatal care in Primary Health Care and health education actions developed by nursing professionals are essential to increase pregnant women’s knowledge, promote self-care, and enable the recognition of risk situations. This study aims to assess pregnant women’s knowledge of preeclampsia and its relationship with health education practices developed by nursing professionals during prenatal care. This is an integrative literature review conducted through the search and selection of scientific studies related to pregnant women’s knowledge of the condition and nursing professionals’ role in health education during prenatal care. Previously established inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, followed by screening, assessment, and analysis of the evidence. A total of 43 studies were identified, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The findings revealed gaps in pregnant women’s knowledge, particularly regarding signs and symptoms, risk factors, prevention, and self-care, reinforcing the relevance of health education during prenatal care. It is concluded that nursing professionals play an essential role in increasing pregnant women’s knowledge through continuous, clear, and needs-based guidance, contributing to autonomy, self-care, and early recognition of risk situations, as well as to the prevention of maternal and fetal complications related to preeclampsia during pregnancy, and strengthening preventive care and qualified prenatal follow-up within Primary Health Care settings.