A nurse is monitoring a client who was admitted for hypocalcemia. 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.

Rationale for Correct Choices:

Chorioamnionitis is a bacterial infection of the amniotic fluid and fetal membranes, which can develop when the protective barrier is compromised due to prolonged rupture of membranes. This client reported clear fluid discharge the previous evening, indicating that the membranes have been ruptured for an extended period. The risk of infection increases significantly as time progresses. Additionally, the client exhibits signs of maternal restlessness and increased fetal heart rate, which could indicate an early response to infection or fetal distress.

Hemorrhage is a significant risk during labor, especially as the cervix approaches full dilation and the client exhibits increasing amounts of blood-tinged vaginal discharge. The client’s history of previous pregnancy loss and current cervical changes suggest that monitoring for postpartum hemorrhage will be essential, particularly after delivery.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices:

Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy is a severe complication associated with conditions such as placental abruption, preeclampsia, or amniotic fluid embolism. However, this client does not exhibit hallmark signs such as widespread bruising, uncontrolled bleeding, or abnormal clotting, making this a less likely immediate risk.

Seizures are characteristic of eclampsia, which is typically preceded by severe preeclampsia. While the client is restless and experiencing significant pain, there are no findings of hypertension, hyperreflexia, or neurological disturbances such as visual changes or altered mental status, making seizures an unlikely concern at this time.

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy characterized by elevated blood pressure, proteinuria, and systemic symptoms. This client has stable blood pressure readings within the normal range, no evidence of proteinuria, and no indications of significant organ dysfunction, making preeclampsia an unlikely concern.

Dehydration is a potential concern due to the client’s nausea, vomiting, and lack of recent oral intake. However, there are no immediate signs of hemodynamic instability, such as hypotension or tachycardia, suggesting that dehydration is not the most pressing concern at this moment.