A nurse is assessing a client who is 6 hr postpartum, tachycardic, and has cool skin.The client reports that they have been bleeding excessively.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale

Leukorrhea is a common and normal occurrence in pregnancy due to increased estrogen production and greater blood flow to the vaginal area. It is usually a thin, white discharge and not a cause for concern unless accompanied by itching, burning, or an unusual odor.

Choice B rationale

Excessive salivation, also known as ptyalism, can occur during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. It is linked to hormonal changes and is not typically harmful, though it may be uncomfortable for the patient.

Choice C rationale

Darkening of the skin on the face, known as melasma or chloasma, is common during pregnancy and is due to increased pigmentation from hormonal changes. It typically resolves postpartum and is not harmful.

Choice D rationale

Epigastric pain in a pregnant client at 33 weeks gestation can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to other organs. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications for both the mother and baby.

The correct answer is Choice A

Choice A rationale: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 25 mg/dL exceeds the normal range of 10 to 20 mg/dL and may indicate impaired renal function or dehydration. In pregnancy, elevated BUN is concerning because renal perfusion is typically increased, leading to lower BUN levels. A rise suggests possible renal compromise, which can affect fetal development and maternal health. It warrants provider notification to assess for underlying pathology such as preeclampsia or renal insufficiency.

Choice B rationale: Hemoglobin level of 10.2 mg/dL is slightly below the normal pregnancy range of 11 to 16 mg/dL, indicating mild anemia. However, in the context of pregnancy, especially with a known history of anemia, this value is not critically low. Iron supplementation and dietary adjustments are typically sufficient. It does not represent an acute complication unless accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, pallor, or tachycardia. Therefore, it does not require immediate provider notification.

Choice C rationale: Fasting blood glucose of 70 mg/dL is at the lower end of the normal range for pregnancy, which spans from 70 to 110 mg/dL. This value is physiologically acceptable and does not indicate hypoglycemia or gestational diabetes. During pregnancy, insulin sensitivity fluctuates, but a fasting glucose of 70 mg/dL is not pathologic. No intervention is needed unless symptomatic hypoglycemia occurs. Thus, this result is not indicative of a prenatal complication.

Choice D rationale: Hematocrit level of 32% is slightly below the normal pregnancy range of 33 to 47%, reflecting mild dilutional anemia due to plasma volume expansion. This is a common physiological adaptation in pregnancy and not necessarily pathologic. Unless accompanied by symptoms or a significant drop in hemoglobin, this value alone does not indicate a prenatal complication. Monitoring and nutritional support are appropriate, but urgent provider notification is not required.