A woman hospitalized with severe preeclampsia is being treated with hydralazine to control blood pressure. Which finding would lead the nurse to suspect that the client is having an adverse effect associated with this drug?

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because sickle-cell anemia is a genetic disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells. It does not affect the AFP level, which is a protein produced by the fetus and placenta. Sickle-cell anemia can be detected by other prenatal tests, such as hemoglobin electrophoresis or DNA analysis.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because cardiac defects are structural abnormalities of the heart or blood vessels that affect the blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus. They may cause an increased AFP level, not a decreased one, as they can lead to fetal distress or edema. Cardiac defects can be detected by other prenatal tests, such as fetal echocardiography or ultrasound.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because Down syndrome is a chromosomal disorder that results from an extra copy of chromosome 21. It causes various physical and mental developmental delays and defects in the fetus. It is associated with a decreased AFP level, as well as decreased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and unconjugated estriol (uE3). Down syndrome can be confirmed by other prenatal tests, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS).

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because respiratory disorders are problems that affect the breathing and gas exchange of the fetus. They may cause an increased AFP level, not a decreased one, as they can lead to fetal distress or edema. Respiratory disorders can be detected by other prenatal tests, such as fetal biophysical profile (BPP) or nonstress test (NST).

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because wearing spandex-type full-length pants can constrict the blood flow and increase the swelling in the feet. The nurse should advise the woman to wear loose-fitting clothes and comfortable shoes that do not squeeze or rub her feet.

Choice B Reason: This is correct because elevating the legs when sitting can improve venous return and reduce the swelling in the feet. The nurse should encourage the woman to elevate her legs above her heart level whenever possible and avoid crossing her legs or standing for long periods.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because limiting the intake of fluids can cause dehydration and worsen the swelling in the feet. The nurse should recommend the woman drink plenty of water and other healthy fluids to maintain hydration and flush out excess sodium and waste products from her body.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because eliminating salt from the diet can cause electrolyte imbalance and affect the fluid balance in the body. The nurse should advise the woman to consume salt in moderation and avoid processed foods that are high in sodium.