A nurse is caring for a client at an outpatient clinic.

Select the 2 diagnostic tests the nurse should anticipate the provider to prescribe.

A. Protruding hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are common in late pregnancy due to increased venous pressure and straining, and while uncomfortable, they are not an urgent concern requiring immediate provider notification.

B. 3+ deep-tendon reflexes: Hyperactive reflexes (3+) can indicate potential preeclampsia, which is a serious condition characterized by hypertension and risk of seizures. This finding requires prompt reporting and further evaluation to prevent complications for both the mother and fetus.

C. Supine hypotension: Supine hypotensive syndrome can occur when a pregnant client lies on her back, causing compression of the inferior vena cava. It is typically relieved by repositioning to the left lateral side and is not immediately dangerous if addressed promptly.

D. Urinary frequency: Increased urinary frequency is common in late pregnancy due to fetal pressure on the bladder. While it may cause discomfort, it is an expected finding and does not require urgent reporting to the provider.

Rationale for correct choices

• Thoughts of self‑harm: The client recently experienced multiple major stressors, loss of a job and the end of a long-term relationship, while displaying flat affect, tearfulness, withdrawal, and refusal to eat. These changes, combined with the statement, “My life is a mess,” indicate worsening depression and internal distress. These findings elevate the risk for self‑harm and require immediate monitoring.

• Hopelessness: The client’s statements reflect feelings of worthlessness and an inability to see a path forward, which are hallmark signs of hopelessness. Their withdrawal, refusal to eat, and persistent tearfulness reinforce that they are overwhelmed and unable to cope with current stressors. Hopelessness is closely linked with suicidal ideation, explaining the elevated self‑harm risk.

Rationale for incorrect choices

• Anorexia nervosa: Although the client is refusing meals, this refusal occurs in the context of emotional distress rather than weight‑loss motivation or body‑image disturbance. The client’s BMI is low but not critically low, and there is no fear of gaining weight or distorted self‑perception. Appetite changes are common in depression and better explained by mood not eating disorders.

• Acute dystonic reaction: Acute dystonia is associated with antipsychotic medications, not sertraline, which the client is currently taking. No signs such as muscle spasms, stiff neck, or oculogyric crisis are present. The client’s symptoms are emotional and cognitive, not neuromuscular.

• Refusal to eat: While refusal to eat is concerning, it alone does not most strongly indicate risk for self‑harm. Poor appetite is common in depression and may reflect low motivation or energy. It lacks the direct emotional connotation that hopelessness carries in predicting self‑harm.

• Family history: A family history of major depressive disorder increases long‑term vulnerability but does not explain the client’s immediate risk situation. The client’s current behaviors and statements provide more immediate clinical evidence than hereditary factors. Family history does not sufficiently reflect the acute emotional state contributing to self‑harm risk.