A nurse is educating a group of patients in their first trimester about exercise during pregnancy.
Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A rationale

A client diagnosed with preeclampsia reporting epigastric pain and unresolved headache is a serious concern. Epigastric pain could indicate severe liver involvement, and a persistent headache could be a sign of progressing neurological involvement, both of which are severe features of preeclampsia. These symptoms suggest the condition may be worsening to eclampsia, a life-threatening complication characterized by the onset of seizure activity or coma in a woman with preeclampsia. Immediate medical attention is necessary to prevent further complications.

Choice B rationale

A tearful client at 32 weeks of gestation experiencing irregular, frequent contractions could be experiencing preterm labor. However, emotional distress and contractions do not necessarily indicate a medical emergency. It’s important to monitor the situation, but it does not need to be immediately reported to the provider.

Choice C rationale

A client diagnosed with preeclampsia having 2+ proteinuria and 2+ patellar reflexes are expected findings. Proteinuria is a common sign of preeclampsia, and hyperreflexia can occur due to increased neuromuscular irritability. While these should be monitored, they do not need to be immediately reported to the provider.

Choice D rationale

A client at 28 weeks of gestation receiving terbutaline reporting fine tremors is an expected side effect of the medication. Terbutaline, a beta-adrenergic agonist, can cause tremors by stimulating the nervous system. While it may be uncomfortable for the client, it is not a medical emergency.

Choice A rationale

Asking the partner to talk about his difficulties in caring for the client is the nurse’s priority. This intervention allows the nurse to assess the partner’s emotional state and provide appropriate support and resources.

Choice B rationale

Recommending that the partner place the client in a long-term care facility may not be the best initial intervention. The decision to place a loved one in a long-term care facility is complex and involves many factors. The nurse should first assess the partner’s needs and concerns before making such a recommendation.

Choice C rationale

Telling the partner to call a family meeting to get help may be a helpful suggestion, but it is not the nurse’s priority. The nurse should first assess the partner’s emotional state and needs before suggesting specific interventions.

Choice D rationale

Suggesting that the partner see a counselor to help him cope with his exhaustion may be a helpful intervention, but it is not the nurse’s priority. The nurse should first assess the partner’s emotional state and needs before suggesting specific interventions.