Which signs should a nurse check for in a pregnant client at risk for preeclampsia?

The signs a nurse should specifically check for in a pregnant client at risk for preeclampsia are proteinuria and hypertension. Preeclampsia is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to other organ systems, most often the liver and kidneys. The proteinuria indicates that the kidneys are not functioning normally, as they should not allow significant amounts of protein to enter the urine.

Monitoring for these signs is crucial because early identification of preeclampsia can lead to timely interventions that might prevent severe complications for both the mother and the fetus. Hypertension, defined as blood pressure higher than 140/90 mmHg, is a primary diagnostic criterion for preeclampsia. On the other hand, proteinuria is assessed through urine tests, often conducted during regular prenatal visits.

While fatigue and dizziness can be common symptoms during pregnancy, they are not specific indicators of preeclampsia. Increased appetite and weight loss also do not correlate with this condition; in fact, weight gain is typically expected during pregnancy. Rapid heart rate and nausea can occur for various reasons and are not exclusive signs of preeclampsia. Thus, focusing on proteinuria and hypertension is essential for identifying and managing the risk of preecl