The nurse is performing a teaching session with a group of clients who are pregnant.
It would be appropriate for the nurse to state that the average weight gain during pregnancy for an individual with a normal body mass index (BMI) is
The nurse is performing a teaching session with a group of clients who are pregnant.
It would be appropriate for the nurse to state that the average weight gain during pregnancy for an individual with a normal body mass index (BMI) is
A. 28 to 40 pounds.
[5%]
B. 25 to 35 pounds.
[57%]
C. 15 to 25 pounds.
[26%]
D. 11 to 20 pounds.
[12%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Maternal & Newborn Health
Lesson
Antepartum
Client Need
Test Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Related Topic
Ante/Intra/Postpartum and Newborn Care
Item Type
Item Type
Knowledge/Comprehension
Explanation
Choice B is correct. The average weight gain during pregnancy for an individual with a normal BMI is 25 to 35 pounds. The amount of optimal weight gain during pregnancy is determined based on the woman’s body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy.
- Gaining too little weight can lead to premature birth and low infant birth weight.
- Gaining too much weight can also result in premature birth and obesity of the child in later life.
- Excessive weight gain can result in strenuous labor, the increased possibility of needing a caesarian section, and increased bleeding.
Choice A is incorrect. This is the recommended weight gain during singleton pregnancy for an underweight woman.
Choice C is incorrect. This is the recommended weight gain during singleton pregnancy for an overweight woman.
Choice D is incorrect. This is the recommended weight gain during singleton pregnancy for an obese woman.
Additional Info
✓ Gaining too little weight can lead to premature birth and low infant birth weight.
✓ Gaining too much weight can also result in premature birth and obesity in the child in later life.
✓ Excessive weight gain can result in strenuous labor, the increased possibility of needing a caesarian section, and increased bleeding.
✓ Pregnancy is not a time to diet, nor is it a time for a client to overindulge on eating and gaining excessive weight.
