What should a nurse monitor closely in a pregnant client receiving terbutaline?

In the context of a pregnant client receiving terbutaline, close monitoring of maternal blood glucose levels is crucial. Terbutaline is a beta-agonist that can affect blood sugar regulation by stimulating glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, which can lead to elevated blood glucose levels. This effect is particularly pertinent in pregnant individuals, as fluctuations in blood sugar can impact both maternal health and fetal well-being.

Continuous assessment of maternal blood glucose helps ensure that any hyperglycemia is identified and managed promptly. If left unmonitored, elevated glucose levels could lead to complications such as gestational diabetes or affect fetal growth and development.

Monitoring blood pressure levels might also be important, as terbutaline can have cardiovascular effects, but it is not the primary concern with this medication. Similarly, while fetal heart rate is important to assess fetal well-being, terbutaline primarily impacts maternal metabolic processes. Assessing for urinary tract infections can be relevant but is less directly related to the pharmacological effects of terbutaline. Thus, monitoring blood glucose levels takes precedence in this scenario.