Case study #2Scenario:JF is an 18 year old woman, gravida 1 para 0 at 38 weeks gestation.She feltfine until 2 days ago, when she noticed swelling in her hands, feet, and face.She complains of frontal headache, which started yesterday and has not beenrelieved by acetaminophen of coffee.She says she feels irritable and doesn’twant the “overhead lighs on.”Her physician is admitting her for induction oflabor.You begin to assess her.Chart ViewAssessment:VS: BP 152/84 HR 88Oral Temp 98.9 degreesWeight 289lbsHeight: 5’4”Edema: noted in hands, feet, faceDeep Tendon reflexes +2, no clonisUrine dipstick reveals proteinuria +3
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Introduction:
This case study presents a scenario of an 18-year-old woman, who is 38 weeks pregnant and is presenting with symptoms of swelling in hands, feet, and face, a frontal headache, irritability, and proteinuria. This case study requires the application of medical knowledge and critical thinking to assess the patient’s condition and provide appropriate treatment.
Answer:
Based on the assessment findings, the patient is showing signs of preeclampsia, which is a pregnancy-induced hypertensive disorder characterized by high blood pressure, proteinuria, fluid retention, and organ dysfunction. The patient’s elevated blood pressure (152/84 mmHg), proteinuria (+3) and symptoms such as swelling, headache, and irritability are all indicative of the development of preeclampsia. Additionally, since the patient is near full term (38 weeks gestation) the recommendation is to induce labor to prevent further complications from preeclampsia. The patient should be carefully monitored and treated following delivery to prevent any long-term complications that may result from preeclampsia.
