MIDTERM CH 11: Prenatal Nutrition

Question 1

What is the primary reason for supplementing folic acid during pregnancy?

a) To increase the blood volume
b) To reduce the risk of neural tube defects
c) To improve maternal bone density
d) To enhance fetal brain development

Answer 1

b) To reduce the risk of neural tube defects

Rationale: Folic acid is essential to prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, during early pregnancy. It is recommended to supplement folic acid even before conception.

Question 2

Which of the following nutrients is specifically recommended to prevent iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy?

a) Vitamin A
b) Calcium
c) Iron
d) Vitamin D

Answer 2

c) Iron

Rationale: Iron is critical during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and the developing fetus’s need for oxygen-carrying red blood cells.

Question 3

What is the recommended daily intake of water during pregnancy?

a) 2 quarts
b) 3 quarts
c) 4 quarts
d) 5 quarts

Answer 3

b) 3 quarts

Rationale: Adequate hydration is crucial during pregnancy to maintain amniotic fluid levels, assist in nutrient transport, and prevent dehydration.

Question 4

Which of the following food choices is considered healthiest for a pregnant woman in terms of fat intake?

a) Avocado
b) Fried chicken
c) Butter
d) Bacon

Answer 4

a) Avocado

Rationale: Avocados are a good source of unsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy compared to saturated fats found in butter and fried foods.

Question 5

Which statement regarding fish consumption during pregnancy is correct?

a) All fish should be avoided due to mercury content.

b) Two servings of fish per week, including one serving of oily fish, is recommended.

c) Pregnant women should eat fish only once a month.

d) Mercury-free fish are the only safe option during pregnancy.

Answer 5

b) Two servings of fish per week, including one serving of oily fish, is recommended.

Rationale: Oily fish like salmon provide essential omega-3 fatty acids, which support fetal brain and eye development. However, high-mercury fish should be avoided.

Question 6

Why is it important for pregnant women to choose whole grains over refined grains?

a) Whole grains are a better source of calcium.

b) Whole grains prevent gestational diabetes.

c) Whole grains are lower in calories than refined grains.

d) Whole grains provide more fiber and help with digestion.

Answer 6

d) Whole grains provide more fiber and help with digestion.

Rationale: Whole grains are high in fiber, which helps prevent constipation, a common issue during pregnancy.

Question 7

Which of the following is a key nutrient needed for bone health during pregnancy?

a) Calcium
b) Vitamin C
c) Iron
d) Vitamin B12

Answer 7

a) Calcium

Rationale: Calcium supports the developing fetus’s bone structure and helps prevent maternal bone density loss during pregnancy.

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT typically a recommendation for a healthy pregnancy diet?

a) Eat at least 2 servings of fish per week

b) Choose reduced-fat dairy products

c) Avoid hydrogenated fats

d) Eat large meals to ensure adequate caloric intake

Answer 8

d) Eat large meals to ensure adequate caloric intake

Rationale: It is better to eat smaller, balanced meals throughout the day rather than large meals, which may cause discomfort.

Question 9

A pregnant woman is at risk for iron deficiency anemia. Which food should she include in her diet to increase iron absorption?

a) Oysters
b) Milk
c) Oranges
d) Spinach

Answer 9

c) Oranges

Rationale: Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits like oranges, enhances the absorption of iron from plant-based foods like spinach.

Question 10

What is the primary function of increased fiber intake during pregnancy?

a) To improve iron absorption
b) To reduce the risk of gestational diabetes
c) To prevent constipation
d) To provide additional vitamins

Answer 10

c) To prevent constipation

Rationale: Increased fiber intake helps prevent constipation, which is a common issue in pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

Question 11

What type of fat should pregnant women avoid due to its potential risks?

a) Unsaturated fats
b) Saturated fats
c) Trans fats
d) Omega-3 fatty acids

Answer 11

c) Trans fats

Rationale: Trans fats, often found in processed foods, should be avoided as they increase the risk of heart disease and other complications.

Question 12

Which of the following would be a good food choice to meet the need for omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy?

a) Chicken
b) Salmon
c) Pork
d) Eggs

Answer 12

b) Salmon

Rationale: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for fetal brain and eye development.

Question 13

Which of the following is the best advice for a pregnant woman who struggles with nausea in early pregnancy?

a) Eat large meals to ensure adequate nutrition.

b) Drink plenty of caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.

c) Avoid drinking water to prevent bloating.

d) Eat small, frequent meals and avoid strong odors.

Answer 13

d) Eat small, frequent meals and avoid strong odors.

Rationale: Small, frequent meals can help manage nausea, and avoiding strong odors can prevent triggering nausea.

Question 14

Which of the following is the most important reason for maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy?

a) To ensure the fetus receives adequate nutrients for growth and development

b) To prevent weight gain

c) To reduce the risk of gestational diabetes

d) To avoid excessive fluid retention

Answer 14

a) To ensure the fetus receives adequate nutrients for growth and development

Rationale: A healthy diet ensures that the developing fetus gets the necessary nutrients for proper growth and development.

Question 15

Which of the following is a potential consequence of insufficient folic acid intake during pregnancy?

a) Low birth weight
b) Neural tube defects
c) Gestational hypertension
d) Preterm labor

Answer 15

b) Neural tube defects

Rationale: Folic acid is essential for preventing neural tube defects like spina bifida.

Question 16

What is the primary function of vitamin D during pregnancy?

a) Promotes calcium absorption for bone health
b) Prevents gestational diabetes
c) Increases appetite
d) Supports immune function

Answer 16

a) Promotes calcium absorption for bone health

Rationale: Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption, which supports both maternal and fetal bone health.

Question 17

Which of the following is the best advice for a pregnant woman to prevent excessive weight gain?

a) Follow a strict low-calorie diet
b) Focus on eating nutrient-dense foods and avoid overeating
c) Exercise vigorously every day
d) Skip meals to reduce caloric intake

Answer 17

b) Focus on eating nutrient-dense foods and avoid overeating

Rationale: A balanced, nutrient-dense diet, coupled with regular physical activity, is the best way to manage weight gain during pregnancy.

Question 18

Which of the following should a pregnant woman avoid due to the risk of listeriosis?

a) Pasteurized milk
b) Soft cheeses like brie
c) Cooked chicken
d) Fresh fruits and vegetables

Answer 18

b) Soft cheeses like brie

Rationale: Soft cheeses may contain listeria, a bacteria that can cause serious infections in pregnant women and their babies.

Question 19

A pregnant woman expresses concern about iron supplementation. Which statement by the nurse is accurate?

A. “Iron needs decrease during pregnancy because the fetus uses minimal iron.”
B. “Iron supplementation can help prevent anemia, which is common in pregnancy.”
C. “Excess iron intake during pregnancy has no impact on the baby.”
D. “You only need iron supplements if you have a history of anemia.”

Answer 19

B. “Iron supplementation can help prevent anemia, which is common in pregnancy.”

Rationale: Iron supplementation is important during pregnancy to prevent iron-deficiency anemia, which can lead to complications such as preterm delivery and low birth weight.

Question 20

When teaching a pregnant client about iron-rich foods, which food should the nurse recommend?

A. Leafy green vegetables and red meat
B. Milk and cheese
C. Citrus fruits and whole grains
D. Potatoes and rice

Answer 20

A. Leafy green vegetables and red meat

Rationale: Iron-rich foods include leafy green vegetables and red meat. Vitamin C from citrus fruits can enhance iron absorption when consumed together.

Question 21

What can pregnant women do to improve the absorption of iron supplements?

A. Take iron with milk or antacids.
B. Take iron supplements on an empty stomach with a glass of orange juice.
C. Combine iron supplements with calcium-rich foods.
D. Take iron supplements at bedtime with water.

Answer 21

B. Take iron supplements on an empty stomach with a glass of orange juice.

Rationale: Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, and the vitamin C in orange juice enhances iron absorption. Calcium and dairy products inhibit iron absorption.

Question 22

How does inadequate maternal iron intake affect the fetus?

A. It has no impact on fetal development.
B. It can lead to a high birth weight.
C. It may contribute to low birth weight and preterm birth.
D. It results in congenital malformations.

Answer 22

C. It may contribute to low birth weight and preterm birth.

Rationale: Inadequate maternal iron intake is linked to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight due to maternal anemia.

Question 23

Which guideline is recommended for healthy eating during pregnancy?

A. Fill half the plate with protein-rich foods.
B. Limit water intake to avoid swelling.
C. Fill half the plate with fruits and vegetables.
D. Focus primarily on refined grains.

Answer 23

C. Fill half the plate with fruits and vegetables.

Rationale: Healthy eating guidelines for pregnant women emphasize filling half of each plate with fruits and vegetables to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients.

Question 24

A client is taking iron supplements but finds them difficult to tolerate. What suggestion can the nurse make?

A. Switch to taking iron every other day.
B. Take iron at bedtime with a snack.
C. Combine iron with calcium supplements.
D. Stop taking iron entirely.

Answer 24

B. Take iron at bedtime with a snack.

Rationale: Taking iron supplements at bedtime with a small snack can help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, which is a common side effect.

Question 25

Which statement about folic acid is incorrect?

A. Folic acid helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects.
B. It must be taken with calcium to work effectively.
C. Folic acid can be found in leafy green vegetables.
D. Supplementation is especially important before and during early pregnancy.

Answer 25

B. It must be taken with calcium to work effectively.

Rationale: Folic acid does not need to be taken with calcium for effectiveness; its primary benefit is reducing the risk of neural tube defects.