Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 89%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
A client who is at 37 weeks of gestation with severe preeclampsia. Laboratory results include a platelet count of 95,000/mm3, an aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level of 160 units/L, and a falling hematocrit.A nurse is caring for a client who is at 37 weeks of gestation with severe preeclampsia. Laboratory results include a platelet count of 95,000/mm3, an aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level of 160 units/L, and a falling hematocrit. Which of the following is the most likely cause of these findings?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
HELLP syndrome explains low platelets, elevated AST, and falling hematocrit due to hemolysis and liver dysfunction, common in severe preeclampsia.