During a routine prenatal visit, a client at 32-weeks gestation reports that urinary frequency has increased during the day as well as at night. The nurse determines the client is having irregular uterine contractions. Which action should the nurse implement?

Choice A rationale

Assessing pain intensity with contraction is not the priority when preeclampsia is suspected. The client's headache, hypertension, and edema indicate a need to evaluate for more specific signs of preeclampsia.

Choice B rationale

Fetal heart rate assessment is important, but evaluating maternal status is more urgent when preeclampsia symptoms are present. Monitoring maternal indicators helps determine the severity of preeclampsia.

Choice C rationale

Checking temperature, pulse, and respirations is part of routine assessment, but it does not provide specific information related to preeclampsia. Other assessments are more relevant for the client's condition.

Choice D rationale

Assessing deep tendon reflexes and clonus helps identify severe preeclampsia and potential for eclampsia. Hyperreflexia and clonus are signs of central nervous system irritability, requiring immediate attention and intervention.

Acidemia: Acidemia refers to an abnormal acidity in the blood (pH < 7.35). Prolonged abnormal FHR patterns can indicate insufficient oxygen delivery to the fetus, leading to anaerobic metabolism and the production of lactic acid, causing acidemia. The normal fetal pH is around 7.30-7.35.

Hypoxemia: Hypoxemia is a reduced level of oxygen in the blood. Abnormal FHR patterns may signal that the fetus is not receiving adequate oxygen, potentially due to cord compression, placental insufficiency, or other factors affecting oxygen transfer. Normal oxygen saturation for a fetus is generally around 30-70%.

Hypoxia: Hypoxia is a condition where there is insufficient oxygen available to meet the metabolic needs of the fetus. Abnormal FHR patterns can indicate ongoing or impending hypoxia, which can lead to severe fetal distress and compromise. It is crucial to monitor and address such conditions promptly.

Rationale for Incorrect Answers:

Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia refers to low blood glucose levels (typically < 45 mg/dL in newborns). Abnormal FHR patterns are not directly associated with changes in glucose metabolism. Rather, hypoglycemia in neonates is often related to maternal diabetes, prematurity, or other metabolic disturbances.

Meconium Stool: Meconium-stained amniotic fluid is a possible indicator of fetal distress but is not a direct result of abnormal FHR patterns. Meconium passage may be associated with post-term pregnancy, fetal hypoxia, or other factors, but the direct consequences of abnormal FHR patterns are more specifically related to oxygenation and acid-base status.

Maternal Hypotension: Maternal hypotension, or low blood pressure (typically < 90/60 mm Hg), is a maternal condition that can affect fetal well-being if severe and prolonged. However, it is not a direct result of abnormal FHR patterns. Instead, maternal hypotension can contribute to abnormal FHR by impairing uteroplacental perfusion.