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Severe preeclampsia — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateOB/GYN (prenatal care, contraception, screening)Severe preeclampsiaUSMLE Step 3

A 36-year-old woman at 36 weeks' gestation has blood pressure 166/112 mm Hg, severe headache, visual symptoms, and proteinuria. Fetal tracing is reassuring. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Administer magnesium sulfate, treat blood pressure, and proceed with delivery planning

Preeclampsia with severe features after 34 weeks generally requires maternal stabilization, seizure prophylaxis, antihypertensive therapy, and delivery.

Reference: ACOG/SMFM low-dose aspirin and prenatal care guidance; USPSTF pregnancy screening recommendations