A nurse is caring for a 36-year-old female client who is at 30 weeks of gestation in the antepartum unit. Exhibits Select the 3 factors that increase the client’s risk for preeclampsia.
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale: Primigravida Primigravida (first-time pregnancy) is a known risk factor for preeclampsia. Studies show that nulliparous individuals (those who have never given birth before) have a higher likelihood of developing preeclampsia compared to multiparous individuals. The exact reason is not fully understood, but it is thought that immunological adaptation plays a role. Choice B rationale: Age Advanced maternal age (≥35 years) is a recognized risk factor for preeclampsia. This client is 36 years old, which places her in the higher-risk category. Older maternal age is associated with increased vascular dysfunction and underlying chronic conditions that predispose individuals to preeclampsia. Choice C rationale: Type 1 diabetes mellitus Type 1 diabetes mellitus significantly increases the risk of preeclampsia due to its impact on vascular health. Diabetes affects endothelial function and can cause chronic inflammation, both of which contribute to hypertension and proteinuria, hallmark symptoms of preeclampsia. Additionally, diabetes increases the risk of abnormal placentation, further raising the chances of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. Choice D rationale: Hemoglobin level A hemoglobin level of 12.5 g/dL is within the normal range and does not contribute to an increased risk for preeclampsia. While anemia is sometimes associated with preeclampsia, a normal hemoglobin level does not raise concern in this case. Therefore, hemoglobin is not a risk factor for preeclampsia in this patient.