A nurse is caring for a client who gave birth 2 hr ago.

The nurse notes that the client’s blood pressure is 60/50 mm Hg. What is the first action the nurse should take?

Choice A rationale
While fat-soluble vitamins are essential for overall health, they do not specifically prevent iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body doesn’t have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that gives them their red color and enables them to carry oxygen in the blood.
Choice B rationale
Limiting intake of high-protein foods is not a recommended method for preventing iron deficiency anemia. In fact, many high-protein foods, such as meat and eggs, are good sources of iron.
Choice C rationale
While fluoridated water can help prevent tooth decay, it does not prevent iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is prevented by consuming adequate amounts of iron, either from food sources or from supplements.
Choice D rationale
A diet that consists primarily of milk, particularly cow’s milk, can contribute to iron deficiency anemia. Cow’s milk is low in iron and can also decrease absorption of iron and irritate the lining of the intestine, causing small amounts of bleeding and the gradual loss of iron in the stool (poop)4.

Choice A rationale
Gestational hypertension is characterized by high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and typically resolves within a few weeks postpartum. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of kidney damage.
However, Sarah’s condition does not fit this description because her blood pressure has been consistently high since she was 26, not just during pregnancy.
Choice B rationale
Chronic hypertension refers to high blood pressure before pregnancy or early in pregnancy. Eclampsia is a severe form of preeclampsia that causes seizures. Given Sarah’s history of consistent high blood pressure since age 26 and her recent seizure at 32 weeks’ gestation, this choice fits her condition.
Choice C rationale
Gestational hypertension refers to high blood pressure that begins during pregnancy. Eclampsia is a severe form of preeclampsia that causes seizures. However, Sarah’s high blood pressure did not begin during pregnancy, making this choice incorrect.
Choice D rationale
Chronic hypertension refers to high blood pressure before pregnancy or early in pregnancy. HELLP Syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzyme levels, and Low Platelet levels) is a serious health condition that can affect pregnant women3. However, Sarah’s symptoms do not indicate HELLP Syndrome, making this choice incorrect.