To relieve dependent edema in a pregnant patient, which treatment should be instituted?

Elevating the legs is an effective method to relieve dependent edema in pregnant patients. During pregnancy, especially in the later trimesters, the enlarged uterus can exert pressure on the pelvic veins and inferior vena cava, leading to impaired venous return from the lower extremities. When a patient elevates her legs, gravity helps return blood to the upper body and heart, reducing the accumulation of fluid in the legs and feet.

This approach is safe and can be easily implemented by the patient without the need for medications. It also aligns with recommended practices for managing physiological changes during pregnancy. Elevation, combined with other supportive measures like wearing supportive stockings, can help alleviate edema.

The other options, while addressing fluid management or sodium intake, do not effectively target the immediate relief of dependent edema and could lead to unnecessary complications if over-restricted. For example, limiting fluid intake could worsen dehydration and potentially lead to other complications, while diuretics are generally contraindicated in pregnancy unless absolutely necessary due to the risk of electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. Therefore, the recommendation to elevate the legs is the most appropriate and beneficial intervention for managing dependent edema in a pregnant patient.