Final answer:
The best advice for a pregnant woman regarding exercise is to listen to her body and choose moderate, low-impact activities, and ensure to consult a healthcare provider. Maintaining a balance by providing essential nutrients and avoiding harmful substances is crucial for fetal development.
Step-by-step explanation:
In response to the question regarding acceptable amounts of exercise during pregnancy, the most important advice a nurse can provide is C. Listen to the body and choose moderate, low-impact activities. It's essential for pregnant women to maintain an active lifestyle for their health and the baby's well-being, within safe and reasonable boundaries. Engaging in a moderate exercise program, about 1 hour per day, can be beneficial. However, it's crucial to avoid high-impact and vigorous exercises that may cause discomfort or harm. Additionally, all exercise routines should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially considering the unique circumstances of each pregnancy.
Pregnant mothers must also ensure they are providing all the necessary nutrients for normal fetal growth and development. Avoiding harmful substances like alcohol and illegal drugs, particularly during the first eight weeks when major organs are forming, is vital. Adequate prenatal care, including discussions regarding diet, exercise routines, and possibly folic acid supplementation, is important to reduce the risk of complications to both mother and fetus.