A patient at 34 weeks pregnant diagnosed with mild PIH is to be treated at home. What is the most appropriate instruction?

Resting on the side is an essential instruction for a pregnant woman diagnosed with mild Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (PIH). This recommendation is based on the understanding that lying on the left side, in particular, can enhance blood flow to the uterus and placenta, thereby improving fetal oxygenation and nutrient delivery while also reducing blood pressure. This position helps alleviate pressure from major blood vessels, such as the aorta and inferior vena cava, which can be compressed when lying flat on the back, especially in later stages of pregnancy.

Other options like limiting fluid intake or increasing physical activity can be counterproductive. Limiting fluids may lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate high blood pressure. Similarly, increasing physical activity at this stage may pose risks, as it's essential to strike a balance between staying active and avoiding excessive exertion. Monitoring blood pressure daily is important for managing PIH, but the immediate and practical instruction to support the patient's condition while promoting both maternal and fetal health would be to encourage rest on the side.