A nurse in a long-term care facility is reviewing a client's laboratory results. The client's potassium level is 5.8 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. Administer a calcium channel blocker. Calcium channel blockers are used primarily for hypertension, angina, and certain cardiac conditions. They are not standard treatment for hyperemesis gravidarum, which is managed with fluid replacement, antiemetics, and nutritional support to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
B. Encourage foods that are low in proteins. Protein intake is essential for fetal growth and maternal health. Clients with hyperemesis gravidarum may tolerate small, frequent meals with bland, high-protein foods better than low-protein options. Avoiding protein is not a recommended intervention, as it does not reduce nausea and may contribute to nutritional deficiencies.
C. Monitor for glycosuria. While glycosuria can occur during pregnancy, it is more relevant in the assessment of gestational diabetes rather than hyperemesis gravidarum. The primary concern in hyperemesis gravidarum is dehydration and electrolyte imbalances rather than glycosuria.
D. Monitor IV fluid therapy. Clients with hyperemesis gravidarum often experience severe nausea and vomiting, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. IV fluid therapy is a critical intervention to restore hydration, correct electrolyte imbalances, and prevent complications such as ketonuria and hypotension.

A. Rigid abdomen. A rigid or board-like abdomen is characteristic of placental abruption, not placenta previa. Placental abruption involves premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, leading to significant abdominal pain and uterine tenderness. In contrast, placenta previa typically presents with painless bleeding.
B. Increased fetal movement. Fetal movement is not directly affected by placenta previa unless there is severe hemorrhage leading to fetal distress. While decreased movement in cases of significant bleeding may indicate fetal compromise, increased movement is not a typical finding.
C. Persistent uterine contractions. Placenta previa does not usually cause persistent contractions. While mild uterine irritability may occur, placenta previa is primarily characterized by painless bleeding. Persistent contractions are more commonly associated with preterm labor or placental abruption.
D. Bright red vaginal bleeding. The hallmark sign of placenta previa is painless, bright red vaginal bleeding in the second or third trimester. This occurs due to the placenta covering or being near the cervical os, leading to bleeding as the cervix begins to dilate or efface.