In planning care for a client with severe preeclampsia admitted to the unit, which nursing intervention should be included?

• A. Restrict food and fluids.
• B. Reduce external stimuli.
• C. Monitor blood glucose levels.
• D. Maintain the client in a supine position.

Answer: (B)

In severe preeclampsia, the priority is to reduce CNS stimulation to support rest and prevent overstimulation that could worsen blood pressure or trigger seizures. Providing a quiet, low-stimulation environment helps the mother relax, promotes sleep, and decreases irritability, all of which contribute to better maternal and fetal outcomes and complements ongoing treatments like seizure precautions and antihypertensive therapy.

Restricting fluids is not a standard intervention for all cases of severe preeclampsia and can risk dehydration or poor perfusion unless there are specific concerns like pulmonary edema. Monitoring blood glucose levels isn’t routinely needed unless the patient has diabetes or another glucose concern. Maintaining a supine position is discouraged because lying flat can decrease venous return and placental perfusion; a left lateral or semi-Fowler’s position is typically preferred to optimize blood flow.