Question

You are called to assess a pregnant woman who is approximately 7 months pregnant. She states that her pregnancy has been uneventful but she is experiencing intermittent headaches. Her vital signs are pulse 118, respirations 22, blood pressure 138/88, and blood sugar 148. Which of the following is true regarding a pregnant woman?

A. Her blood pressure is usually higher during pregnancy.
B. Her respirations usually remain the same during pregnancy.
C. Her pulse rate should be lower than normal.
D. Diabetes may be made worse during pregnancy.

Answer 1

During pregnancy, blood volume, pulse, and blood pressure increase, while respiratory rate remains the same. Diabetes may be made worse during pregnancy.

Step-by-step explanation:

A. Her blood pressure is usually higher during pregnancy.

B. Her respirations usually remain the same during pregnancy.

C. Her pulse rate should be lower than normal.

D. Diabetes may be made worse during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, blood volume increases substantially. As a result, the pulse and blood pressure also rise moderately. This explains the higher blood pressure experienced by pregnant women. The respiratory minute volume also increases to compensate for the oxygen demands of the fetus, but this does not impact the respiratory rate. Additionally, pregnant women may experience gestational diabetes, which can worsen existing diabetes.