A nurse is caring for a client who has an indwelling catheter with a urinary drainage system. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Respiratory data: The client’s respirations are even and nonlabored, with clear lung sounds and an oxygen saturation of 94% on room air. Although the respiratory rate is mildly elevated, there are no signs of pulmonary edema or respiratory compromise requiring immediate follow-up.

B. Lower extremity data: The presence of 1+ dependent edema bilaterally can be a normal finding in pregnancy due to increased fluid volume and venous stasis. In isolation, this level of edema does not indicate a critical concern requiring urgent follow-up.

C. Nausea: Nausea and vomiting in the third trimester, especially when accompanied by headache and right epigastric pain, are concerning for severe preeclampsia. These symptoms suggest hepatic involvement and warrant prompt follow-up and evaluation.

D. Deep tendon reflex: Hyperreflexia with 3+ deep tendon reflexes indicates increased neuromuscular irritability. This finding is associated with preeclampsia and increases the risk for seizure activity, making it a priority for follow-up.

E. Blood pressure: A blood pressure of 156/96 mm Hg meets the criteria for hypertension in pregnancy. Persistent elevations place the client at risk for preeclampsia and related complications and require immediate provider notification.

F. Fundal height: At 30 weeks’ gestation, an expected fundal height is approximately 30 cm. A measurement of 26 cm suggests possible intrauterine growth restriction, which may be related to placental insufficiency and requires further assessment.

G. Weight data: A weight gain of 0.68 kg (1.5 lb) in one week may indicate abnormal fluid retention. Rapid weight gain in pregnancy is a concerning sign of worsening preeclampsia and should be followed up promptly.

A. Moderate lochia rubra on the pad: Moderate lochia 24 hours postpartum is considered a normal finding as the uterus continues to shed the lining. It typically appears bright red and gradually decreases over the following days, so it does not require immediate reporting.

B. Nipple tenderness with breastfeeding: Nipple tenderness is common in the early postpartum period due to breastfeeding, especially if the latch is not optimal. While it should be addressed to prevent complications, it is not an urgent finding requiring immediate reporting.

C. Hemorrhoids on the rectal area: Hemorrhoids are a frequent postpartum occurrence, often resulting from vaginal delivery or straining during labor. They are uncomfortable but not emergent, so they do not need immediate reporting.

D. Calf edematous and tender: A calf that is swollen, edematous, and tender may indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a potentially life-threatening postpartum complication. This finding requires immediate reporting to the primary RN for timely assessment and intervention.