What is the most consistent test finding for a woman at 26 weeks gestation presenting with a serum glucose level of 142 mg/dL?

In evaluating the scenario presented, the correct answer aligns with the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) based on the glucose tolerance test results. At 26 weeks gestation, a serum glucose level of 142 mg/dL is above the threshold typically used in screening for gestational diabetes, which raises the need for further testing to confirm the diagnosis.

The 3-hour oral glucose tolerance test is commonly used for diagnosing GDM after an abnormal initial screening, such as the 1-hour test. If GDM is suspected, the 3-hour glucose tolerance test includes testing serum glucose levels at fasting and at intervals after ingestion of a concentrated glucose load. Specifically, if at least two of the following criteria are met—a fasting level of 95 mg/dL or higher, a level of 180 mg/dL or higher at 1 hour, a level of 155 mg/dL or higher at 2 hours, or a level of 140 mg/dL or higher at 3 hours—this confirms a diagnosis of GDM.

The results of the scenario that indicate a serum glucose of 190 mg/dL at 1 hour, 165 mg/dL at 2 hours, and 145 mg/dL at 3