A pregnant patient is at the prenatal clinic for a routine visit at 30 weeks gestation. The nurse monitors the patient for indications of physiological demands by the fetus on the patient. Which finding causes the nurse concern?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A hemoglobin level of 9.5 g/dL and hematocrit level of 30% are lower than the normal range for a pregnant woman, suggesting anemia. Anemia during pregnancy is related to insufficient oxygen supply to the fetus and can cause fetal growth restriction, preterm delivery, or low birth weight. The other options, PT of 16.5 seconds, WBCs of 16,000 mm³, and heart rate up 20 bpm, are normal physiological changes that can occur during pregnancy.

A Pregnant Patient Is at the Prenatal Clinic for a Routine