Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

A 37-year-old woman at 30 weeks of gestation presents with weight gain, protein in urine, and normal vitals. What condition should be suspected?

1. HELLP syndrome

2. Pregnancy-induced hypertension (preeclampsia)

3. Eclampsia of pregnancy

4. Primary hypertension

The correct answer is: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (preeclampsia)

In this case, the presentation of weight gain, protein in the urine, and normal vitals in a 37-year-old woman who is 30 weeks pregnant aligns most closely with pregnancy-induced hypertension, commonly known as preeclampsia. Pre-eclampsia generally occurs after the 20th week of gestation and is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria. The mention of weight gain could signify fluid retention, which is a common symptom associated with preeclampsia. Preeclampsia typically does not present with severe symptoms initially, which is why normal vital signs can still be present. It is critical to monitor for further developments, as preeclampsia can lead to more severe complications, including eclampsia, if left untreated. Eclampsia, characterized by seizures, would not be suspected here due to the absence of those symptoms. HELLP syndrome, which stands for Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count, is a more severe form of preeclampsia and would usually show signs of liver distress or hemolysis that are not indicated in this patient's presentation. Primary hypertension is also less likely given that she is presenting during pregnancy, where new-onset hypertension typically