A nurse is caring for a 36-year-old female client who is at 30 weeks of gestation in the antepartum unit. Exhibits Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client’s progress.

Rationale for Correct Condition Preeclampsia is characterized by hypertension (≥140/90 mm Hg) and proteinuria (≥300 mg/24 hr) or signs of systemic involvement such as headache and edema. The client’s elevated BP, significant proteinuria, headache, hyperreflexia, and pitting edema strongly indicate preeclampsia. The absence of seizures rules out eclampsia, and the gestational age excludes chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia. Rationale for Correct Actions Magnesium sulfate prevents seizures by stabilizing neuronal excitability and reducing cerebral vasospasm. It also lowers BP by promoting vascular relaxation. External fetal monitoring detects fetal distress from utero-placental insufficiency caused by preeclampsia-related hypertension and endothelial dysfunction. Rationale for Correct Parameters Blood pressure reflects disease progression and response to antihypertensives. Severe hypertension increases the risk of cerebral hemorrhage and placental abruption. Deep tendon reflexes indicate neurological impairment. Hyperreflexia signals worsening preeclampsia, while absent reflexes may indicate magnesium toxicity. Rationale for Incorrect Conditions Gestational hypertension lacks proteinuria and systemic symptoms. Chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia requires a pre-existing hypertensive diagnosis. Eclampsia involves seizures, which the client has not reported. Rationale for Incorrect Actions Ampicillin is not indicated without infection. Rh immune globulin is unnecessary without Rh incompatibility. Anticoagulants are not first-line for preeclampsia. Rationale for Incorrect Parameters Temperature is not directly related to preeclampsia. Petechiae are signs of coagulopathy, not primary indicators. Pruritus is irrelevant unless liver dysfunction is suspected. Take-Home Points Preeclampsia involves multisystem dysfunction with endothelial damage. Magnesium sulfate prevents seizures but must be monitored for toxicity. Differentiation from gestational hypertension is crucial for management. Fetal monitoring is key to detecting early signs of compromise.