What should a nurse prioritize in the care of a pregnant client with severe hypertension?

In the context of caring for a pregnant client with severe hypertension, prioritizing the monitoring of fetal heart rate is essential due to the potential risks associated with hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Severe hypertension can lead to complications such as placental abruption, fetal distress, and intrauterine growth restriction.

By closely monitoring the fetal heart rate, the healthcare team can assess the well-being of the fetus and quickly identify any signs of distress or compromise. This assessment allows for timely intervention if necessary, ensuring the safety of both the mother and the child. Maintaining an attentive focus on fetal well-being is paramount in managing severe hypertension, which can have significant implications for the pregnancy outcome.

While encouraging ambulation, hydration and nutrition, and stress management techniques are important components of overall care for pregnant clients, they do not take precedence over the immediate need to assess and monitor the fetal status in cases of severe hypertension. Prioritizing fetal heart rate monitoring allows for the most critical intervention to happen, promoting positive outcomes in a potentially high-risk situation.