A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is at 14 weeks of gestation about findings to report to the provider.

Which of the following findings should the nurse include in the teaching

This is a sign of preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy that can cause high blood pressure, proteinuria, and seizures.

Preeclampsia can affect the placenta, the kidneys, the liver, and the brain of the mother and the fetus. It requires immediate medical attention and may lead to early delivery.

Choice A, bleeding gums, is wrong because it is a common occurrence during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that increase blood flow to the gums. It is not a cause for concern unless it is excessive or accompanied by other symptoms.

Choice B, urinary frequency, is wrong because it is also a normal finding during pregnancy due to the growing uterus putting pressure on the bladder. It is not a sign of infection or kidney problems unless it is associated with pain, burning, or blood in the urine.

Choice D, faintness upon rising, is wrong because it is usually caused by orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure when changing positions.

This can happen during pregnancy due to the dilation of blood vessels and the increased blood volume. It can be prevented by rising slowly, drinking enough fluids, and avoiding prolonged standing.

The correct answer is choice C. The nurse should ask the client what the voices are telling them, because this can help assess the client’s risk for harm to self or others, and also show empathy and respect for the client’s experience.

The nurse should not assume that the client’s hallucinations are related to medication noncompliance, as this can be perceived as accusatory and judgmental (choice A).

The nurse should not focus on the duration of the hallucinations, as this is not the priority at this time (choice B).

The nurse should not invalidate the client’s reality by stating that they do not hear anything, as this can cause mistrust and alienation (choice D).

The nurse should use therapeutic communication techniques to establish rapport and safety with the client who has schizophrenia.