Final answer:
Teratogenic drugs such as captopril can cause fetal malformation. Teratogens can damage the developing embryo or fetus and result in various complications depending on potency, dose, and fetal susceptibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse providing teaching to a pregnant client who is taking captopril, an ACE inhibitor, should explain that teratogenic drugs can cause fetal malformation. Teratogens are environmental agents that can cause damage to the developing embryo or fetus. Captopril, like other ACE inhibitors, can lead to fetal renal failure and oligohydramnios which result in complications such as pulmonary hypoplasia and limb contractures, as well as cranial bone abnormalities. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is fetal malformation.
Moreover, a variety of other substances and conditions are considered teratogens, including alcohol, illicit drugs like heroin and cocaine, prescription and over-the-counter medications, radiation, viruses, certain chemicals, and nutrient deficiencies. These can result in a range of adverse fetal outcomes depending on the potency of the substance as a mutagen, the dose of the teratogen, and the susceptibility of the fetus to teratogenesis. It is critical for pregnant women to be aware of the potential teratogenic effects of medications and other substances during pregnancy.