High-Risk Pregnancy Considerations Flashcards

Which position is absolutely contraindicated for a client at 30 weeks with suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the left calf?

Answer: Massage should not be performed until DVT is ruled out or cleared by physician

DVT is a contraindication to massage of the affected limb due to the risk of dislodging a thrombus and causing pulmonary embolism; physician clearance is mandatory.

A client with pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) arrives with a reading of 155/100 mmHg taken just before the session. The therapist should:

Answer: Postpone massage and advise her to seek medical evaluation today

A reading of 155/100 mmHg represents severe-range hypertension that requires same-day medical evaluation, not a rescheduled massage appointment.

Edema in pregnancy is considered pathological and requires physician referral when it presents as:

Answer: Sudden pitting edema of the face, hands, and feet that does not resolve with rest

Sudden pitting edema involving the face and hands—especially when persistent—is a warning sign of preeclampsia requiring immediate medical evaluation.

A client has been diagnosed with oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid). How should this affect the massage treatment?

Answer: Deep abdominal work is contraindicated; obtain physician clearance before treating

Oligohydramnios indicates a high-risk pregnancy requiring physician clearance; deep abdominal work is avoided as it may compress the already-compromised amniotic sac.

Which statement best describes the role of massage in managing round ligament pain during high-risk pregnancy?

Answer: Gentle myofascial work to the hip flexors and abdominal support muscles may reduce tension on the ligaments

Easing tension in adjacent muscle groups such as the hip flexors and abdominal muscles can reduce the mechanical pull on the round ligament and lessen pain.

A client at 38 weeks with polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) experiences sudden shortness of breath during the massage session. The therapist should:

Answer: Have her change to a left lateral position and monitor her; call for emergency help if breathing does not improve

Polyhydramnios can cause significant diaphragmatic compression; repositioning to left lateral may relieve pressure, but failure to improve warrants emergency response.

Which laboratory finding in a prenatal massage intake would most directly indicate the client has preeclampsia rather than chronic hypertension alone?

Answer: Significant proteinuria (protein in urine)

Preeclampsia is defined by hypertension plus significant proteinuria (≥300 mg/24h) after 20 weeks, distinguishing it from chronic hypertension without end-organ involvement.