The nurse is performing an assessment on a pregnant patient with a diagnosis of severe preeclampsia. The nurse reviews the assessment findings and determines that which finding is most closely associated with a complication of this diagnosis?

A. Complaints of feeling hot when the room is cold is incorrect because this is not a typical finding of preeclampsia and may relate to individual comfort or other conditions unrelated to preeclampsia. B. Edema of the lower extremities is incorrect because mild to moderate edema is common in normal pregnancy and even in preeclampsia, but it is not the most critical sign of a severe complication. Lower extremity edema alone does not indicate a serious or immediate complication. C. Evidence of bleeding, such as in gums, petechiae, and purpura is correct because these findings suggest thrombocytopenia and a risk for disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a serious complication of severe preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome. Bleeding and clotting abnormalities require immediate attention to prevent maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. D. Periods of fetal movement followed by quiet periods is incorrect because this is a normal fetal behavior. While decreased fetal movement can be concerning, normal intermittent quiet periods are expected and do not indicate preeclampsia complications.