What physical characteristic should a nurse expect in a primigravida client with hyperthyroidism?

In a primigravida client with hyperthyroidism, diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, is a common symptom due to the increased metabolic rate associated with this condition. Hyperthyroidism stimulates the body's metabolism, leading to various symptoms, including heat intolerance and increased perspiration. This heightened metabolic state can make individuals feel warm and sweat more than usual, which is a physiological response to the excess thyroid hormones.

Weight gain is generally not expected in hyperthyroid patients; instead, they often experience weight loss despite an increased appetite. Elevated blood pressure may occur, but it is not a characteristic symptom uniquely associated with hyperthyroidism; other underlying conditions might also contribute to hypertension. Hair loss can happen in cases of hyperthyroidism, but it is often less pronounced compared to the more immediate and noticeable symptom of diaphoresis. Thus, diaphoresis stands out as the most representative characteristic of a client experiencing hyperthyroidism in a pregnancy context.