A nurse is teaching a client who is 10 weeks pregnant about nutrition during pregnancy.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A nurse is teaching a client who is 10 weeks pregnant about nutrition during pregnancy.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A. “I should avoid fish completely during pregnancy.”
[7%]
B. “I need to increase my calcium intake to at least 1,500 mg per day.”
[25%]
C. “I should eat 340 extra calories each day starting in the second trimester.”
[54%]
D. “I need to drink at least 1 liter of water each day.”
[13%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Maternal & Newborn Health
Lesson
Antepartum
Client Need
Test Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Related Topic
Health Promotion/Disease Prevention
Item Type
Item Type
Knowledge/Comprehension
Explanation
Choice C is correct. Starting in the second trimester, the caloric requirement increases by about 340 calories per day to support fetal growth and maternal metabolism.
Choice A is incorrect. Pregnant individuals should avoid fish high in mercury but are encouraged to eat low-mercury fish (e.g., salmon, tilapia) for omega-3 fatty acids.
Choice B is incorrect. The recommended daily calcium intake during pregnancy is around 1,000 mg, not 1,500 mg.
Choice D is incorrect. The recommended fluid intake is closer to 2–3 liters/day during pregnancy to support blood volume and amniotic fluid production.
Learning Objective
Identify appropriate dietary modifications during pregnancy to promote maternal and fetal health.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics

Nutritional in Pregnancy
28.2 Maternal Nutrition & Safety
Additional Info
✓ Caloric needs increase gradually throughout pregnancy.
✓ Iron, folic acid, and calcium are essential nutrients.
✓ Safe fish intake includes up to 12 ounces/week of low-mercury fish.
✓ Hydration supports placental circulation and kidney function.