Final answer:
To reduce nausea from morning sickness, a woman may try eating tart or salty foods like lemonade or chips, though salty snacks should be limited.
Drinking plenty of fluids earlier rather than later in the day can help maintain hydration without disrupting sleep.
Brushing teeth immediately after eating can trigger nausea, and it's recommended to avoid heavy snacking before bedtime to prevent gastric reflux.
Step-by-step explanation:
To help a woman reduce the severity of nausea caused by morning sickness, the nurse might suggest that she: a. Try a tart food or drink, such as lemonade, or salty foods, such as potato chips. This approach can help because some women find that tart flavors or salty foods can help alleviate nausea.
However, it is important to note that salty foods should be consumed in moderation due to the general guideline to limit sodium intake. Consumption of excessive salt can be counterproductive, especially during pregnancy when blood pressure levels are a concern.
b. Drink plenty of fluids early in the day. Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy, but drinking lots of fluids late at night can disrupt sleep because of the increased need to urinate, aggravating nausea. Therefore, it is essential to balance fluid intake throughout the day.
c. Brush her teeth immediately after eating. While oral hygiene is essential, brushing teeth right after eating can sometimes trigger nausea, particularly if someone is experiencing heightened sensitivity to sensations and odors during pregnancy.
d. Never snack before bedtime. It is generally advised to avoid eating large meals or snacks right before bedtime, as this can increase the risk of gastric reflux or heartburn, which could exacerbate nausea. Eating a light snack is acceptable if it helps in managing morning sickness symptom.