a-30-year-old-at-34-weeks-has-two-blood-pressure-readings-of-14894-mmhg-and-1509

Question

A 30-year-old at 34 weeks has two blood pressure readings of 148/94 mmHg and 150/96 mmHg, and a urine dipstick showing +2 protein. Based on standard diagnostic thresholds, which is the most appropriate interpretation?

Accepted Answer

Findings meet criteria for preeclampsia (new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks plus proteinuria).

Answer

This is diagnostic of gestational hypertension only and cannot be preeclampsia unless seizures occur.

Answer

This indicates chronic hypertension that predates pregnancy and is unrelated to protein excretion, so management should ignore pregnancy-specific protocols.

Answer

Findings are normal for the third trimester because transient BP elevations and trace proteinuria are expected and require no follow-up or monitoring.