A nurse is admitting a client who is at 36 weeks gestation and has painless, bright red vaginal bleeding. The nurse recognizes this finding as an indication of which of the following conditions?

Choice A rationale :

Scrambled eggs. Taking ferrous sulfate with scrambled eggs is not the optimal choice because eggs contain phytates, which can bind to iron and reduce its absorption. Therefore, it may hinder the effectiveness of the iron supplement, and the client may not receive the full benefit of the medication.

Choice B rationale

A high-fibre meal. While fiber is generally beneficial for digestion and overall health, it is not the best choice to take with ferrous sulfate. Fiber can also interfere with iron absorption in the same way as phytates, potentially reducing the medication's effectiveness.

Choice C rationale

Orange juice. The nurse should instruct the client to take the ferrous sulfate with orange juice. Orange juice is an excellent choice because it is rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plant-based sources like ferrous sulfate). By taking the medication with orange juice, the client can maximize the absorption of iron and improve the treatment of iron-deficiency anaemia.

Choice D rationale

Milk. Consuming ferrous sulfate with milk is not advisable. Calcium, present in milk, can inhibit the absorption of iron. Therefore, taking the medication with milk might reduce the efficacy of the iron supplement and not provide the desired therapeutic effect.

Choice A rationale:

Hypotension is not an expected finding in a client with severe preeclampsia. In preeclampsia, the client typically experiences hypertension (high blood pressure) rather than hypotension (low blood pressure). Hypotension may be concerning as it could indicate inadequate perfusion to vital organs.

Choice B rationale:

Headache is an expected finding in a client with severe preeclampsia. Headaches are a common symptom of preeclampsia and are often described as persistent and severe. They can result from increased blood pressure and possibly cerebral oedema.

Choice C rationale:

Tachycardia is not an expected finding in a client with severe preeclampsia. Tachycardia refers to an abnormally fast heart rate, but in preeclampsia, bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate) or a normal heart rate is more typical. Tachycardia could indicate other underlying issues.

Choice D rationale:

Polyuria is not an expected finding in a client with severe preeclampsia. Polyuria is characterized by excessive urination, and in preeclampsia, the opposite may occur due to decreased kidney perfusion, resulting in oliguria (reduced urine output).