In the third trimester, a woman with mild preeclampsia is monitored at home. Which symptom should prompt contacting the provider?

In the third trimester, a woman with mild preeclampsia is monitored at home. Which symptom should prompt contacting the provider?

• A. Urine test is negative for protein.
• B. Fetal movements are more than 4 per hour.
• C. Weight increases by more than 1 pound in a week.
• D. The blood pressure reading ranges between 122/80 and 130/82 mm Hg.

Answer: (C)

In home management of mild preeclampsia, watching for signs of worsening disease is crucial. A rapid gain in weight reflects fluid retention from edema, which can signal progression toward more significant maternal involvement. Reporting a weight gain of more than about 1 pound in one week helps catch this early and prompts clinician evaluation. Other options don’t indicate worsening status. A negative urine protein suggests less protein loss. Blood pressure in the range given is not alarming if it remains stable. Fetal movements that are within or above normal are reassuring; decreased movements would be a concern and would warrant contacting the provider instead.

In home management of mild preeclampsia, watching for signs of worsening disease is crucial. A rapid gain in weight reflects fluid retention from edema, which can signal progression toward more significant maternal involvement. Reporting a weight gain of more than about 1 pound in one week helps catch this early and prompts clinician evaluation.

Other options don’t indicate worsening status. A negative urine protein suggests less protein loss. Blood pressure in the range given is not alarming if it remains stable. Fetal movements that are within or above normal are reassuring; decreased movements would be a concern and would warrant contacting the provider instead.