What is the primary concern when a pregnant client reports epigastric pain at 33 weeks of gestation?

Epigastric pain during pregnancy, especially in the later stages, can indicate significant concerns, making the suspicion of potential preeclampsia a critical consideration. Preeclampsia is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and often involves symptoms such as epigastric pain, which can arise from liver distension or damage due to elevated blood pressure and other factors associated with the disorder.

At 33 weeks of gestation, any report of pain in the epigastric region should be thoroughly evaluated, as it may signal the onset of preeclampsia or worsening of existing hypertension, conditions that can have serious implications for both the mother and the fetus. Preeclampsia can progress to more severe forms, leading to complications such as eclampsia or HELLP syndrome, which involves hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count.

While gastrointestinal changes, indigestion, and common discomforts are indeed possible explanations for epigastric pain during pregnancy, they are generally less concerning than the risk of preeclampsia, which necessitates immediate assessment and monitoring. Therefore, the focus on potential preeclampsia is warranted in this scenario, highlighting the importance of recognizing warning signs in