NCLEX-style Questions on Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy

A nurse is reviewing the classifications of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. Which of the following conditions is characterized by hypertension (≥ 140 mmHg systolic or ≥ 90 mmHg diastolic) that occurs BEFORE 20 weeks gestation?

• Gestational Hypertension

• Preeclampsia

• Chronic Hypertension

• Eclampsia

A 32-week pregnant client presents with a blood pressure of 145/92 mmHg. She denies proteinuria or any other symptoms. Based on the classification criteria, how would the nurse categorize this condition?

• Chronic Hypertension

• Preeclampsia

• Gestational Hypertension

• Eclampsia

A nurse is caring for a client at 28 weeks gestation who has a blood pressure of 150/95 mmHg and a urine dipstick reading of +2 protein. The client reports no other symptoms. This presentation is consistent with which hypertensive disorder?

• Gestational Hypertension

• Preeclampsia

• Chronic Hypertension

• Chronic Hypertension with Superimposed Preeclampsia

Which of the following clients are at an increased risk for developing preeclampsia? (Select all that apply)

• A client with a pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index (BMI) of 32

• A client with a history of gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy

• A client pregnant with twins

• A client with chronic hypertension

• A client who conceived via assisted reproductive technology

The root cause of preeclampsia is primarily described as vasospasm. This leads to:

• Decreased peripheral resistance

• Increased oncotic pressure

• Vessel "leakage"

• Enhanced cerebral perfusion

A client with preeclampsia complains of a new-onset headache that is not relieved by medication. The nurse understands this symptom is a result of:

• Decreased liver perfusion

• Decreased cerebral perfusion

• Generalized edema

• Platelet aggregation

A client with preeclampsia reports severe pain in the right upper quadrant (RUQ). The nurse knows this symptom is related to:

• Decreased renal perfusion

• Vasospasm

• Decreased liver perfusion

• Pulmonary edema

Proteinuria, elevated creatinine, and elevated BUN in a client with preeclampsia are indicative of:

• Decreased liver perfusion

• Decreased renal perfusion and glomerular damage

• Generalized edema

• Cerebral vasospasm

A potential fetal complication associated with hypertensive disorders in pregnancy is:

• Macrosomia

• Polyhydramnios

• Decreased fetal growth (IUGR)

• Post-term birth

A serious potential client complication of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy is:

• Anemia

• Hypoglycemia

• Placental abruption

• Urinary tract infection