Question

A nurse is teaching a client who has BMI of 22 about dietary recommendations during pregnancy. which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. I should avoid a vegetarian diet.
B. I should decrease my intake of protein.
C. I should increase my daily intake by 600 calories.
D. I should plan to gain a total of 25 to 35 pounds.

Answer 1

The client's understanding is best indicated by their intention to gain a total of 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy, with an increased intake of 300 calories per day during the second and third trimesters, as per dietary recommendations.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer that indicates an understanding of the dietary recommendations during pregnancy is: "I should plan to gain a total of 25 to 35 pounds." A normal-weight woman with a BMI of 22 does not need to double her caloric intake during pregnancy. Evidence-based dietary recommendations suggest an increase of about 300 calories per day during the second and third trimesters is sufficient. Nutritional guides advise a diet that includes a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein sources, while limiting saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium. The additional protein, vitamins, and minerals are also essential to support both maternal health and fetal development.