A primigrávida client at 32-weeks gestation presents to the clinic with a report of a pounding headache. The client demonstrates hyperreflexia. The nurse should recognize the client's symptoms may be caused by which condition?

Choice A reason: Cerebral edema can cause headache and neurological symptoms, but hyperreflexia is not a typical primary manifestation. Cerebral edema is more often associated with increased intracranial pressure, altered mental status, and focal neurological deficits. Choice B reason: Severe anxiety may cause headaches and subjective complaints, but it does not cause hyperreflexia. Hyperreflexia is a neurological sign linked to central nervous system irritability, not psychological stress. Choice C reason: Retinal arteriolar spasms are a hallmark of preeclampsia, which commonly presents with headache, hyperreflexia, and visual disturbances. These spasms reflect vascular changes due to hypertension and endothelial dysfunction. The client’s symptoms strongly suggest preeclampsia, making this the correct answer. Choice D reason: Intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a severe complication of preeclampsia or other conditions, but it presents with bleeding, bruising, and abnormal clotting, not headache and hyperreflexia. It is not the primary cause of the client’s current symptoms.