Caloric Needs
This is the recommended daily caloric intake for a pregnant woman to support fetal growth
2500
This vitamin, taken in 600-1000 mcg/day, helps prevent neural tube defects
folic acid
A woman with a normal BMI should gain this total amount of weight
25-35 lbs
Consuming this during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and should be strictly avoided
alcohol
What foods can help with nausea and vomiting?
Bananas, rice, toast, ginger tea, crackers, applesauce
In the second trimester, women should increase caloric intake by this amount
300-350 calories
This nutrient is needed in 80 grams per day and helps with fetal growth
protein
A woman with a BMI over 30 is recommended to gain this total amount
11-20 lbs
What food item must be thoroughly heated before consumption to reduce risk of foodborne illness?
Deli meats
1. In the __ trimester, heartburn and slowed digestion may occur
2. What combination of dietary and lifestyle strategies best support digestion and fetal growth during this phase?
1. third
2. Rating smaller frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods, staying upright after meals, and continuing a balanced diet
In which trimester does nausea typically decrease, and appetite/energy increase?
second
Calcium needs during pregnancy are about this many mg per day?
1000 mg
weekly weight gain recommendation for an overweight woman is
0.5-0.7 lbs per week
Why are unpasteurized dairy products considered unsafe during pregnancy?
They may contain harmful bacteria like listeria, which can cause miscarriage or stillbirth?
A patient in her third trimester complains of worsening heartburn. After confirming she has been avoiding dietary triggers and eating smaller meals, what should the nurse’s next step be?
Recommend she consult with her provider about safe antacid options, such as calcium carbonate, as persistent heartburn may need pharmacological support during late pregnancy.
government resource provides guidance on balancing food groups to meet caloric and nutrient needs during pregnancy
What is MyPlate (or ChooseMyPlate.gov)
1. What is the importance of taking iron ?
2. List 3 sources of iron
3. Downside of iron and how to reduce side effect ?
1. Reduce chance of anemia
2. Lean red meat, spinach, and beans (or cereal)
3. It can cause constipation- increase fluid & fiber intake
If a pregnant woman is gaining 2 lbs per week consistently and has a BMI of 26, what should the nurse’s priority action be?
Educate the patient on appropriate weight gain and assess dietary habits, as 2 lbs/week exceeds the recommended range for her BMI category (0.5–0.7 lbs/week)
Caffeine should be limited to how many mg per day?
200 mg
Why is calcium intake especially important in the second trimester of pregnancy?
The fetal skeletal system begins forming and requires adequate calcium for bone development. Insufficient calcium intake can cause the mother’s body to draw calcium from her own bones, increasing her risk for osteoporosis.