In managing a client with gestational hypertension, what should a nurse monitor closely?

In the management of a client with gestational hypertension, it is crucial for the nurse to monitor for the presence of protein in the urine. This is significant because proteinuria can indicate the development of preeclampsia, a condition that can arise from gestational hypertension and poses risks to both the mother and fetus. The presence of protein in the urine suggests that the kidneys may be affected by the hypertension, and close monitoring helps in early identification of any complications that may arise.

While other factors like fluid intake and output, fetal heart rate, and vaginal bleeding are also important aspects of maternal and fetal assessment, they do not specifically indicate the progression or severity of gestational hypertension as directly as proteinuria does. Monitoring protein levels helps ensure timely interventions and management of potential complications associated with the hypertensive disorder.