A nurse is caring for a client with gestational hypertension who is at risk for developing preeclampsia.

Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement to prevent this complication? (Select all that apply.).

The correct answer is choice C) “I should report any dizziness or lightheadedness while taking this medication.” This is because labetalol can lower blood pressure and cause orthostatic hypotension, which can lead to falls and injuries.The patient should be advised to change positions slowly and monitor their blood pressure regularly while taking labetalol.

Choice A is wrong because labetalol can be taken with or without food.Taking it on an empty stomach does not affect its absorption or efficacy.

Choice B is wrong because labetalol does not affect potassium levels in the blood.Foods high in potassium are not contraindicated while taking this medication.

Choice D is wrong because swelling in the feet or hands can be a sign of worsening preeclampsia, which is a serious complication of hypertension in pregnancy.The patient should not stop taking labetalol without consulting their doctor, as this can cause rebound hypertension and endanger the mother and the fetus.The patient should seek medical attention if they experience swelling, headache, vision changes, abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movements.

The correct answer is choice D. All of the above.All of these factors increase a woman’s risk for developing gestational hypertension.

Choice A is wrong because nulliparity (having no previous pregnancies) is a risk factor for gestational hypertension.Rates in nulliparous women range from 6% to 17% while rates in multiparous women range from 2% to 4%.

Choice B is wrong because age younger than 20 years is a risk factor for gestational hypertension.Pregnant women more than 40 years or less than 18 years are at risk of gestational hypertension.

Choice C is wrong because history of chronic renal disease is a risk factor for gestational hypertension.High blood pressure can also cause problems during and after delivery, such as preeclampsia, eclampsia, stroke, and placental abruption.

Gestational hypertension is blood pressure greater than or equal to 140/90 that begins during the latter half of pregnancy (typically after 20 weeks) and goes away after childbirth.It can put the mother and her baby at risk for problems during the pregnancy, such as preterm delivery and low birth weight.