Which finding would be a classic sign of preeclampsia to monitor during home visits for a patient with gestational hypertension?

Which finding would be a classic sign of preeclampsia to monitor during home visits for a patient with gestational hypertension?

• A. Proteinuria
• B. Hypertension
• C. Low-grade fever
• D. Generalized edema

Answer: (B)

The key thing you’re watching for is the development of protein in the urine. Preeclampsia is defined as new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks plus proteinuria (or other organ involvement). In someone who already has gestational hypertension, the signal that preeclampsia may be developing is the appearance or increase of proteinuria, not just the continued high blood pressure. Edema is common in pregnancy and not specific for preeclampsia, and a low-grade fever isn’t a typical feature. So during home visits, checking for proteinuria—via urine dipstick or a 24-hour collection—and reporting any newly detectable protein is the best way to monitor for progression to preeclampsia. If proteinuria is present, that patient would need closer surveillance and potential medical evaluation.

The key thing you’re watching for is the development of protein in the urine. Preeclampsia is defined as new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks plus proteinuria (or other organ involvement). In someone who already has gestational hypertension, the signal that preeclampsia may be developing is the appearance or increase of proteinuria, not just the continued high blood pressure. Edema is common in pregnancy and not specific for preeclampsia, and a low-grade fever isn’t a typical feature. So during home visits, checking for proteinuria—via urine dipstick or a 24-hour collection—and reporting any newly detectable protein is the best way to monitor for progression to preeclampsia. If proteinuria is present, that patient would need closer surveillance and potential medical evaluation.