College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

What assessment is necessary for a pregnant person experiencing severe headaches alongside swollen hands and feet?

1. Blood pressure

2. Pitted edema test

3. Girth measurement

4. Cervical range of motion

The correct answer is: Blood pressure

In the case of a pregnant person experiencing severe headaches along with swollen hands and feet, assessing blood pressure is crucial. This combination of symptoms raises the concern for potential pregnancy-related complications such as preeclampsia, which is characterized by high blood pressure and can pose significant risks both to the pregnant person and the fetus. Monitoring blood pressure helps determine whether the individual is experiencing hypertension, which is a key factor in diagnosing and managing preeclampsia. While evaluating for pitted edema can provide information about fluid retention, and girth measurement may help assess changes in size related to swelling, these assessments do not directly address the urgent need to evaluate blood pressure. Additionally, assessing cervical range of motion would not be relevant in this scenario as it does not pertain to the symptoms described. Therefore, monitoring blood pressure is the most critical assessment to ensure the safety and health of the pregnant person and to determine the necessary next steps in their care.