A nurse in the antepartum clinic is assessing a client's adaptation to pregnancy. The client states that she is, "happy one minute and crying the next." The nurse should interpret the client's statement as an indication of which of the following?a. The nurse should recognize and interpret the client's statement as an indication of emotional lability.b. Many women experience rapid and unpredictable changes in mood during pregnancy.c. Intense hormonal changes may be responsible for mood changes that occur during pregnancy.d. Tears and anger alternate with feelings of joy or cheerfulness for little or no reason.

a. The nurse should recognize and interpret the client's statement as an indication of emotional lability.

Step 2 - Emotional lability refers to rapid, often exaggerated changes in mood, where strong emotions or feelings occur spontaneously and with seemingly little stimulus. During pregnancy, emotional lability is common, as hormonal fluctuations can have a significant impact on mood regulation, contributing to feelings of happiness alternating with episodes of crying.

Extra: Pregnancy is a period of intense physical and emotional changes. The hormones estrogen and progesterone increase significantly, which can affect neurotransmitter pathways in the brain. These hormonal changes can lead to mood swings and emotional lability, often experienced as sudden bouts of tearfulness, irritability, or elation. Additionally, the physical discomforts of pregnancy, concerns about the baby's health, financial stresses, and changes in relationships can all contribute to a pregnant woman's complex emotional state. It is important for healthcare providers to acknowledge and support women experiencing these varied emotions, and if necessary, refer them to appropriate counseling or support services.