A client at 32 weeks gestation presents with pedal edema, dyspnea, fatigue, and a moist cough. What is the most important question for the nurse to ask?

In a case where a client at 32 weeks gestation presents with symptoms such as pedal edema, dyspnea, fatigue, and a moist cough, it is crucial to assess for potential complications related to cardiac function, especially in pregnant clients. Asking about a history of rheumatic fever is particularly important because rheumatic fever can lead to rheumatic heart disease, which can significantly affect cardiovascular status during pregnancy.

Pregnancy places additional stress on the heart and circulatory system, and these symptoms can indicate potential heart issues, possibly exacerbated by a history of rheumatic fever. Identifying any past heart-related complications can help the nurse determine the urgency of the situation and guide further assessment or interventions.

Other questions, such as inquiring about the first symptom experienced, dietary habits related to salt intake, or recent travel history, do not address the immediate concern of potential cardiac complications. While these factors can be relevant to the patient's overall health, they do not directly relate to the critical nature of assessing for previous heart disease which could explain the current symptoms.