Which risk factor documented in a prenatal client's record would support a diagnosis of placental abruption?

Maternal hypertension is a significant risk factor that supports a diagnosis of placental abruption. This condition occurs when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery, which can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the fetus. Hypertension increases vascular resistance and can lead to changes in blood flow to the placenta, contributing to conditions that may precipitate abruption, such as placental ischemia or rupture of blood vessels.

Other factors like maternal diabetes, a history of previous C-sections, and obesity may pose risks in pregnancy but are not as directly linked to placental abruption as maternal hypertension. While maternal diabetes can lead to other complications, the relationship between high blood pressure and the risk of placental detachment is much more pronounced. Thus, the presence of hypertension in a prenatal client’s record raises significant concern for placental abruption.