What is true regarding early discharge for a patient with preeclampsia who is 19 hours postpartum?

The scenario of discharging a patient with preeclampsia postpartum involves important considerations regarding their safety and health. In cases of preeclampsia, even if a patient appears stable 19 hours postpartum, there are significant risks associated with early discharge. Preeclampsia is characterized by hypertension and potential organ dysfunction, which can lead to serious complications such as seizures or progression to eclampsia.

Patients must be monitored for adequate blood pressure control and signs of worsening condition before being deemed stable for discharge. The standard practice is to ensure continuous assessment of their condition after delivery, often requiring an extended hospital stay for observation and treatment adjustments if necessary. Therefore, early discharge is generally not advised for a patient who has experienced preeclampsia, as the potential for complications could jeopardize both maternal and fetal health.

Thus, the statement regarding the inadvisability of early discharge for these cases effectively encapsulates the clinical rationale involved in managing postpartum care for a patient with preeclampsia.