Clients with hyperemesis gravidarum are at risk for which of the following complications?

Choice A rationale Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by severe, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, leading to significant fluid and nutritional loss. The excessive loss of gastric contents (hydrochloric acid and water) and reduced fluid intake disrupt the body's homeostasis. This results in hypovolemia and can cause electrolyte imbalances, specifically hypokalemia (low potassium) and metabolic alkalosis due to hydrogen ion loss. Normal serum potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Choice B rationale The severe and persistent vomiting in hyperemesis gravidarum often results in significantly reduced caloric intake and sometimes starvation ketosis as the body breaks down fat for energy. This typically leads to hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) due to insufficient glucose intake and hepatic glycogen depletion, rather than hyperglycemia. Normal fasting blood glucose is usually 70 to 99 mg/dL. Choice C rationale Due to the protracted vomiting and reduced oral fluid intake, clients with hyperemesis gravidarum are typically dehydrated and hypovolemic. This reduced circulatory volume usually results in hypotension (low blood pressure) and tachycardia (fast heart rate) as compensatory mechanisms, rather than an increase in blood pressure. Normal blood pressure is typically less than 120/80 mmHg. Choice D rationale The hallmark of hyperemesis gravidarum is protracted nausea and vomiting leading to an inability to maintain adequate nutrition and fluid balance. This often results in a significant, and sometimes dangerous, loss of body mass, which is defined as weight loss exceeding 5% of pre-pregnancy weight, contrary to a weight gain.