What client situation places a pregnant woman at high risk for contracting HIV?

Having a history of intravenous (IV) drug use in the past year significantly increases a pregnant woman's risk of contracting HIV. This mode of drug use is particularly concerning because it often involves the sharing of needles, which can easily transmit the virus if any of the individuals involved are HIV positive. The risk is exacerbated in the context of pregnancy because the woman’s immune system is already altered to support the developing fetus, making her more susceptible to infections.

Moreover, the presence of HIV in the bloodstream can have severe implications not only for the mother’s health but also for the health of the unborn child, potentially leading to mother-to-child transmission of the virus if precautions are not taken. This risk underscores the importance of screening and preventive measures for pregnant women with a history of IV drug use.