With regard to preeclampsia and eclampsia, nurses should be aware that:

Preeclampsia is a condition of the first trimester; eclampsia is a condition of the second and third trimesters.

The causes of preeclampsia and eclampsia are well documented.

Preeclampsia results in decreased function of 40% to 60% in such organs as the placenta, kidneys, liver, and brain.

Severe preeclampsia is defined as preeclampsia plus proteinuria.