Question

Third trimester discomfort -

dependent edema
What can the mother do to help with this? A) Elevate the legs
B) Increase sodium intake
C) Avoid hydration
D) Limit movement and exercise

Answer 1

To alleviate third trimester dependent edema, a mother can elevate her legs, engage in appropriate exercises, and use massage and compression therapies, while also decreasing salt intake to manage fluid retention.

Step-by-step explanation:

In dealing with third-trimester discomfort and specifically dependent edema, a mother can adopt several strategies to alleviate the symptoms. Therapy for edema typically centers on mitigating the underlying causes and implementing activities that improve the condition. To help reduce the effects of dependent edema, the following measures can be suggested:

• Elevate the legs to assist in drainage and reduce swelling.
• Engage in appropriate exercises that promote blood and lymph circulation, preventing fluid accumulation.
• Consider massage and compression for moving fluid out of the affected tissues.
• Decrease salt intake to reduce sodium and water retention, as excess sodium can exacerbate edema.

Increasing sodium intake, avoiding hydration, and limiting movement and exercise are not advisable as they can worsen edema or have other negative health impacts.