A patient who is 30 weeks pregnant tells the nurse, "I have had low blood pressure all my life, and now it is 136/74. What's wrong with me?" What is the most appropriate response by this nurse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Blood volume increases by 1500 mL to meet the needs of an enlarged uterus and fetal tissue, causing increased cardiac workload (increased heart rate and blood pressure). The blood pressure may decrease slightly in the second trimester and then return to the usual level during the third trimester. With an increase in blood volume, the patient may experience an increase in blood pressure above baseline. This referral mentioned in option C is unnecessary. With an increase in blood volume, the patient may experience an increase in blood pressure above baseline.

A Patient Who Is 30 Weeks Pregnant Tells the Nurse