The nurse continues to care for the client who is at 30 weeks of gestation. Exhibits Click to specify which of the following actions the nurse should anticipate including in the client's plan of care. Select all that apply.
Explanation & Rationale
A. Apply internal fetal monitor: Internal monitoring requires ruptured membranes and cervical dilation, which are not present. External monitoring is adequate at this stage of gestation and clinical condition. B. Encourage bed rest: Bed rest helps reduce maternal blood pressure and cerebral stimulation, which lowers the risk of seizure activity. It also promotes uteroplacental perfusion, supporting fetal oxygenation and growth. C. Assess DTR: Hyperreflexia is a common neurologic sign of severe preeclampsia and can indicate impending seizures. Regular DTR assessment also helps evaluate the therapeutic effect of magnesium sulfate if administered. D. Decrease lighting in the client's room: Dimming the lights minimizes sensory stimulation that can provoke seizures in clients with preeclampsia. It also contributes to a calming environment that supports neurologic stability. E. Prepare for amniocentesis: Amniocentesis is not currently indicated because there's no concern for fetal lung maturity, genetic testing, or intraamniotic infection. Clinical focus is on maternal stabilization. F. Initiate contact precautions: There are no clinical signs or lab findings indicating an infectious process that requires isolation. Standard precautions remain appropriate for this non-infectious condition. G. Check urinary output: Oliguria may signal renal impairment, which is a complication of severe preeclampsia. Monitoring urine output also helps determine fluid status and the need for intervention or delivery. H. Monitor blood pressure: Continuous or frequent BP monitoring helps detect progression to severe preeclampsia or eclampsia. It guides timely decisions about antihypertensive use or early delivery planning.