What is an expected change in a pregnant woman's vital signs?

The expected change in a pregnant woman's vital signs is an increased heart rate. During pregnancy, the body undergoes numerous physiological changes, and one notable effect is the increase in blood volume. As the blood volume expands to accommodate the growing fetus and the needs of the maternal tissues, the heart has to pump more efficiently to supply adequate blood flow. This increased demand typically results in an elevated heart rate to ensure that blood circulation remains adequate.

While there may be fluctuations in blood pressure during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester, it typically does not lead to a decreased blood pressure. Instead, blood pressure may initially drop due to hormonal changes and then stabilize or sometimes rise in the third trimester. The respiratory rate may also increase due to the growing uterus pushing against the diaphragm, but this is not a primary vital sign change compared to heart rate. Elevated temperature can occur, but it is not a standard expected change specific to all pregnant women. Thus, the most consistent and expected vital sign change is an increased heart rate.