Question

A nurse on the antepartum unit is caring for four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse identify as the priority?

A) Client at 28 weeks with gestational diabetes
B) Client at 32 weeks with preeclampsia
C) Client at 36 weeks with mild anemia
D) Client at 38 weeks with a urinary tract infection

Answer 1

The client at 32 weeks with preeclampsia should be the priority due to the potential for rapid progression and severe complications to both mother and fetus.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should identify the client at 32 weeks with preeclampsia as the priority. Preeclampsia is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and often protein in the urine, which can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the fetus if not properly managed. It is a condition that can progress rapidly and may lead to seizures (eclampsia), organ damage, and other severe health issues. Early recognition and management are crucial to prevent complications, therefore making the client with preeclampsia the priority over the clients with gestational diabetes, mild anemia, and a urinary tract infection.