A nurse is caring for a client who states, "I don't want to start dialysis treatments." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• Administer betamethasone: Betamethasone is administered to pregnant clients at risk of preterm delivery to promote fetal lung maturity. Given the client's gestational age of 31 weeks and signs of severe preeclampsia, administering corticosteroids is critical to prepare for potential early delivery.
• Monitor intake and output every hour: Severe preeclampsia can impair renal function, leading to decreased urine output and worsening fluid retention. Hourly monitoring of intake and output helps detect early signs of renal compromise and fluid overload, both of which require immediate intervention.
• Assist RN with performing a vaginal examination every 12 hr: Vaginal examinations are avoided in cases of severe preeclampsia unless absolutely necessary because they can stimulate uterine contractions or introduce infection. Therefore, routinely assisting every 12 hours with vaginal exams is not appropriate in this client's plan of care.
• Obtain a 24-hr urine specimen: A 24-hour urine collection assesses the degree of proteinuria and provides a clearer diagnostic picture of the severity of preeclampsia. Quantifying protein excretion helps guide clinical management and decisions about timing of delivery.
• Provide a low-stimulation environment: A calm, quiet environment minimizes the risk of seizure activity in clients with severe preeclampsia. Reducing auditory, visual, and environmental stimulation is a standard preventative measure to decrease neurological irritability.
• Give antihypertensive medication: Severe hypertension must be promptly treated to prevent complications like stroke, placental abruption, and progression to eclampsia. Administering antihypertensive therapy helps stabilize maternal blood pressure and protects both maternal and fetal health.
• Maintain bedrest: Bedrest helps reduce blood pressure and physical stress, promoting better perfusion to the placenta. Although strict bedrest is controversial long-term, short-term bedrest is often used in severe preeclampsia management while stabilization measures are implemented.

A. "You will also find he will want to wear girls' clothes, including dresses, as well.": This response incorrectly assumes that playing with dolls predicts future behavior regarding gender expression, which is not accurate. It also may cause unnecessary worry for the parent.

B. "Gender identity is generally not established until the child is around five years old.": While partially true, this response does not directly address the parent's concern about the current behavior. It misses the opportunity to explain that imitating caregiving is a normal developmental stage.

C. "At two years of age, toddlers often engage in play that imitates adult actions.": This response correctly explains that toddlers naturally mimic the behavior they observe in adults, including caregiving activities, without it indicating future gender identity. Play is a normal part of development at this age.

D. "When a male toddler chooses to play with dolls, it is an indication he will later identify as a female.": This statement is inaccurate and misleading. A toddler’s choice of toys reflects curiosity and imitation, not a prediction of future gender identity or roles.