A nurse is caring for a female client who is at 30 weeks of gestation in the labor and delivery unit. Exhibits A nurse is evaluating the client who is in preterm labor. Click to highlight the findings below that would indicate that the client has a potential problem. To deselect a finding, click on the finding again. Choose only from below Vital Signs 1130: Oral temperature 38.3° C (101° F) Heart rate 98/min Respiratory rate 18/min Blood pressure 112/59 mm Hg SaO₂ 98% on room air

Answer is: Oral temperature 38.3° C (101° F) This client is at 30 weeks’ gestation and presenting in preterm labor with uterine contractions, cervical change, and leakage of amniotic fluid. Her vital signs are mostly within normal limits for pregnancy, except for the elevated temperature of 38.3° C, which indicates maternal fever. Fever in a client with preterm labor is concerning because it may suggest intra-amniotic infection (chorioamnionitis), which increases risk for maternal sepsis, fetal infection, and preterm birth complications. Other vital signs are within normal physiological ranges for pregnancy: Heart rate 98/min (slightly elevated but can be normal in pregnancy) Respiratory rate 18/min (normal) Blood pressure 112/59 mm Hg (normal) SaO₂ 98% on room air (normal) Take-home point: In preterm labor, a maternal fever is a key warning sign that warrants prompt evaluation and interventions to prevent complications for both mother and fetus.