Question

a pregnant woman has come to the clinic for her first prenatal visit. the nurse is assessing her for a high-risk pregnancy. which disorder is most likely to result from a high-risk pregnancy due to inadequate nutrition?

Answer 1

Undernutrition caused by inadequate maternal nutrition during pregnancy can lead to low birthweight, developmental delays, and birth defects. Nutrients such as folic acid and iron are critical for preventing such conditions. Access to nutritious food and regular prenatal care are crucial for a healthy pregnancy.

Step-by-step explanation:

A disorder that is most likely to result from a high-risk pregnancy due to inadequate nutrition is undernutrition in the fetus, leading to conditions such as low birth weight, developmental delays, and birth defects like neural tube defects and anemia. A pregnant woman must consume a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, and lipids to support both her health and the growth and development of the fetus. A deficiency in nutrients like folic acid can lead to significant birth defects, while an inadequate intake of iron can cause anemia, adversely affecting both the mother and the child.

Babies with low birth weight are more susceptible to disease and more likely to die in infancy. Conditions like kwashiorkor, which is a protein deficiency, and marasmus, a severe food energy deficiency, are extreme forms of undernutrition that can be fatal. Hence, access to nutritious food and prenatal care is vital to prevent undernutrition and ensure the healthy development of the child.