Complications in Early Pregnancy Related

Review Complications in Early Pregnancy related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a client with severe hyperemesis gravidarum. She is 10 weeks gestation and has a 10% weight loss. The client is being admitted for fluid and electrolyte replacement. The nurse is aware it is important to check which deficiency that puts the client at risk for Wernicke’s encephalopathy?

  • A. Folic acid
  • B. Vitamin D
  • C. Thiamine
  • D. Glucose
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Thiamine. In severe hyperemesis gravidarum, excessive vomiting can lead to thiamine deficiency, increasing the risk of Wernicke's encephalopathy, a neurological disorder. Thiamine is essential for the brain's energy metabolism. Without adequate thiamine, neurological symptoms such as confusion, memory issues, and ataxia can arise. Folic acid (choice A) is important for neural tube development but not directly related to Wernicke's encephalopathy. Vitamin D (choice B) deficiency can lead to various issues but is not associated with Wernicke's encephalopathy. Glucose (choice D) is a source of energy but does not directly influence thiamine deficiency and Wernicke's encephalopathy.