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This study aimed at describing the meanings that a group of hospitalized pregnant attributed to the experience of having preeclampsia. It is a qualitative research of ethno nursing type. To collect the information the Observation-participation-reflection guide, given by Leininger was taken into account. Open interviews were conducted to eight pregnant women as key informants and five nurses as general informants. The sample was obtained by saturation of information. During data analysis, the four phases proposed by Leininger were applied: data collection, identification and categorization of descriptors and components, analysis of context and patterns and establishment of central themes. The results of this research provide theoretical knowledge to give culturally coherent care to pregnant women with preeclampsia and thus be a complement to their comprehensive care. Women require the health care team that serves them to inform them clearly and comprehensively about their health situation, that of their unborn child and the care they need. Women know about signs and alarming symptoms of preeclampsia, but do not perceive them. The emotional, social and spiritual changes produced in women by their illness and hospitalization need to be considered for nursing care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]