Question

The prenatal clinic nurse is caring for a 15 year old primiparous patient at 8 weeks' gestation. The patient is 64 inches tall and weighs 115 pounds. The patient asks the nurse why she is supposed to gain so much weight. What is the best response by the nurse?

A. "Gaining 25-35 pounds is recommended for healthy fetal growth."
B. "It's what your certified nurse-midwife recommended for you."
C. "Inadequate weight gain delays lactation after delivery."
D. "Weight gain is important to assure that you get enough vitamins."

Answer 1

During the first trimester, a pregnant person does not need to consume additional calories, but weight gain of approximately 1 lb per month is common. During the second and third trimesters, an extra 300 calories per day are recommended for the growing fetus, resulting in a weight gain of about 1 lb per week.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the first trimester, a pregnant person does not need to consume additional calories to maintain a healthy pregnancy. However, a weight gain of approximately 0.45 kg (1 lb) per month is common. During the second and third trimesters, the appetite increases, but it is only necessary to consume an additional 300 calories per day to support the growing fetus. Most pregnant people gain approximately 0.45 kg (1 lb) per week.