Maternal Hypertension Pathway
Document Type
Conference Proceeding - Restricted Access
Publication Date
5-9-2025
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in postpartum women, accounting for 26.5% of pregnancy-related deaths, with significantly higher rates among women of color and those with lower incomes (ACOG). Hypertension is a major contributor to CVD, and optimizing blood pressure (BP) control postpartum is crucial in mitigating associated risks. In response, Corewell Health implemented a standardized hypertension pathway to improve patient monitoring, treatment, education, and follow-up care, with the goal of reducing hospital readmissions and postpartum morbidity. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the hypertension pathway in reducing readmissions due to preeclampsia and improving postpartum cardiovascular outcomes. The hypertensive pathway was implemented 01/2024 requiring stricter guidelines to monitor blood pressures.
A retrospective chart review was conducted utilizing Corewell Health West data from 2018-2024. The study population included postpartum patients diagnosed with chronic hypertension or preeclampsia, tracking their readmission rates, cardiovascular complications, and overall maternal outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed to compare outcomes before and after pathway implementation.
Effective management of postpartum hypertension is critical to reducing maternal cardiovascular morbidity. The implementation of a standardized hypertension pathway may enhance early detection, timely intervention, and patient education, ultimately reducing readmission rates and improving long-term maternal health outcomes.
Effective management of postpartum hypertension is critical to reducing maternal cardiovascular morbidity. The implementation of a standardized hypertension pathway may enhance early detection, timely intervention, and patient education, ultimately reducing readmission rates and improving long-term maternal health outcomes.
Recommended Citation
McGhee K, Ferguson T, Hoopes K, Daniels K. Maternal hypertension pathway. Presented at: Research Day Corewell Health West; 2025 May 9; Grand Rapids, MI.
Comments
2025 Research Day Corewell Health West, Grand Rapids, MI, May 9, 2025. Abstract 1837