Inpatient Obstetric Nurse Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

The recommendation from AWOHHN for the order of preference for antihypertensive drugs during pregnancy reflects both safety and efficacy in managing hypertension. The correct choice prioritizes medications that are well-studied for use in the perinatal population, have a favorable safety profile, and effectively lower blood pressure without causing harm to the mother or fetus.

Hydralazine is often chosen first due to its long-standing use in acute settings, particularly for managing severe hypertension in pregnant individuals, as it effectively lowers blood pressure and has a rapid onset of action. Labetalol is preferred as a second-line therapy because it is effective in treating hypertesive disorders during pregnancy and has both alpha and beta-blocking properties, making it suitable for managing blood pressure while minimizing adverse effects. Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, is typically utilized afterward because it can be effective for chronic hypertension but is generally not first-line for acute situations.

This order signifies a structured approach to treating elevated blood pressure in pregnant patients, ensuring safety for both the mother and the fetus while effectively managing the condition.