When observing the neck of a client with cardiovascular disease during pregnancy, what sign might you expect to see?

In a client with cardiovascular disease during pregnancy, one might expect to observe distended neck veins, also known as jugular vein distension (JVD). This sign indicates increased central venous pressure, which can occur due to the heart's inability to adequately pump blood, a common issue in individuals with cardiovascular problems. During pregnancy, the body undergoes numerous physiological changes, including increased blood volume and cardiac output. If the heart is unable to accommodate this increase effectively, it may lead to congestion and fluid overload, causing the veins in the neck to become prominent and distended.

The presence of JVD can serve as an important clinical indicator of potential heart failure or other cardiovascular complications. Recognizing this sign is crucial for monitoring the cardiovascular status of pregnant clients, especially those with a preexisting condition. Other options, such as pallor or swollen lymph nodes, might indicate different health concerns, and while a visible carotid pulse might be noticeable, it does not specifically denote a cardiovascular issue or indicate the same pathological state as JVD does.