A sign of cardiac decompensation in a pregnant woman with rheumatic heart disease is?

The identification of cardiac decompensation in a pregnant woman with rheumatic heart disease is critical to ensuring appropriate management and care. A rapid, irregular, weak pulse signifies a compromised cardiac function, which is a key indicator of heart failure or decompensation.

In this context, a weak pulse indicates that the heart is not effectively pumping blood, which can lead to inadequate circulation and result in symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or fluid retention. The irregularity in the pulse could also suggest arrhythmias, common in patients with underlying heart conditions.

Recognizing these signs ensures that timely interventions can occur, which is vital in managing the health of both the mother and the fetus, especially considering the added stress on the cardiovascular system during pregnancy.

The other options might relate to various complications, but they do not specifically indicate cardiac decompensation as clearly as the indication of a rapid, irregular, and weak pulse.