What is a sign of severe preeclampsia in a pregnant patient?

A sign of severe preeclampsia in a pregnant patient is characterized by the presence of proteinuria levels greater than 5 grams in a 24-hour urine collection. Severe preeclampsia is a serious condition that typically presents with high blood pressure and organ dysfunction, and significant proteinuria is an essential criterion in its diagnosis. The level of proteinuria can indicate the extent of kidney impairment due to the condition, which is why protein levels exceeding this threshold are alarming and indicate a heightened risk for both the mother and fetus.

In the context of other options, blood pressure readings below 140/90 mm Hg does not indicate severe preeclampsia, as elevated blood pressure is one of the main criteria for diagnosis. Mild headaches alone are not specific for severe preeclampsia and can occur in many normal pregnancies, while a normal fetal heart rate would suggest that there are no acute concerns regarding fetal wellbeing, which doesn’t align with the typical findings in severe preeclampsia that may affect fetal health due to maternal complications. Thus, the presence of proteinuria at this level is a definitive marker of severe preeclampsia and signifies a critical need for medical intervention.