What should a nurse practitioner consider when evaluating a pregnant patient with itching and red lines on her palms?

The selection of the answer regarding normal symptoms related to decreased vascular resistance does not adequately address the clinical context of a pregnant patient presenting with itching and red lines on her palms. Instead, considering cholestasis of pregnancy is more pertinent in this scenario.

Cholestasis of pregnancy is characterized by pruritus (itching), particularly on the palms and soles, along with other symptoms that may arise due to bile salt accumulation. This condition usually arises in the third trimester and can significantly affect maternal health, causing liver dysfunction and potentially leading to complications for the neonate, including preterm birth or fetal distress. The presence of itching in conjunction with red lines on the palms raises the concern for cholestasis specifically due to the way it manifests during pregnancy.

Normal physiological changes during pregnancy can cause a variety of symptoms, yet the specific presentation of itching and red lines is suggestive of a pathophysiological condition rather than typical adaptations of pregnancy. Therefore, recognizing cholestasis of pregnancy would guide further assessments and possible interventions to ensure both maternal and fetal well-being.