What might be a sign of mild preeclampsia that compromises a pregnant client’s health?

Elevated blood pressure is a key indicator of mild preeclampsia and reflects a significant physiological change that can compromise a pregnant client's health. In preeclampsia, blood pressure increases due to the effect of placental factors on the maternal vascular system, which can lead to reduced blood flow to vital organs, including the placenta, kidneys, and liver.

Monitoring blood pressure is critical because sustained elevations can result in serious complications for both the mother and the fetus, such as placental abruption, stroke, and eclampsia. The condition can progress rapidly, and elevated blood pressure serves as an important warning sign that should prompt further assessment and management to ensure the safety of both the mother and child.

Chronic headaches and unexplained fatigue can occur in many situations and are not specific indicators of preeclampsia. Proteinuria is also a significant sign of this condition; however, elevated blood pressure is a more immediate and critical parameter in determining the potential compromise of health in a pregnant client. Thus, elevated blood pressure stands out as the most relevant sign of mild preeclampsia in this scenario.