Question

The nurse is teaching a pregnant client about nutritional needs during pregnancy. Which menu selection will best meet the nutritional needs of the pregnant client? A. Hamburger pattie, green beans, French fries, and iced tea B. Roast beef sandwich, potato chips, baked beans, and cola C. Baked chicken, fruit cup, potato salad, coleslaw, yogurt, and iced tea D. Fish sandwich, gelatin with fruit, and coffee

Short answer

Answer: Option C (Baked chicken, fruit cup, potato salad, coleslaw, yogurt, and iced tea)

Step-by-step solution

Understand the nutritional needs during pregnancy

Pregnant women need a well-balanced diet to support the growth and development of the baby. Their nutritional requirements include an increase in protein, vitamins and minerals (such as iron, calcium, and folic acid), and adequate fluid intake while limiting excessive fat, sugar, and caffeine intake.

Review and evaluate each menu option

Now that we know the nutritional needs of a pregnant woman, let's evaluate each menu choice: A. Hamburger pattie, green beans, French fries, and iced tea: This option provides protein from the hamburger pattie and some vitamins and minerals from the green beans. However, French fries are high in fat and the iced tea may contain caffeine. B. Roast beef sandwich, potato chips, baked beans, and cola: The roast beef sandwich provides protein, and baked beans offer some vitamins and minerals. However, potato chips are high in fat, and cola contains both sugar and caffeine. C. Baked chicken, fruit cup, potato salad, coleslaw, yogurt, and iced tea: This option has a better balance of nutrients. Baked chicken provides protein, fruit cup contains essential vitamins and minerals, yogurt provides calcium, and the potato salad and coleslaw offer some additional nutrients. The iced tea can contain caffeine, but overall this option covers the nutrients needed. D. Fish sandwich, gelatin with fruit, and coffee: Fish sandwich offers protein and perhaps some healthy omega-3 fatty acids, while the gelatin with fruit provides some vitamins and minerals. However, coffee is high in caffeine and should be avoided or limited.

Choose the best menu selection

Based on the analysis of each option's nutritional value and the needs of a pregnant woman: Option C (Baked chicken, fruit cup, potato salad, coleslaw, yogurt, and iced tea) is the best choice to meet the nutritional needs of the pregnant client.

Key concepts

Pregnancy Diet

A well-balanced pregnancy diet is essential for the health of both the mother and the developing baby. Pregnant women should focus on consuming foods that provide the necessary nutrients their bodies need more of during this critical period. These nutrients include additional calories, protein, and important vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, iron, and calcium.
To ensure a balanced pregnancy diet, it is helpful to include:

• Protein: Essential for the growth and development of the baby. Sources include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, and legumes.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Packed with vitamins and minerals. Aim for a variety of colors on your plate to get a range of nutrients.
• Whole Grains: Provide energy and fiber. Options like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread are good choices.
• Dairy: Important for bone health. Choose milk, cheese, or yogurt for calcium and vitamin D.

Limiting foods high in fats, sugars, and caffeine is also important to prevent unnecessary weight gain and other health issues.

Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins are a crucial element of pregnancy nutrition as they help fill in any nutritional gaps in a pregnant woman's diet. Regular intake of these vitamins ensures that essential nutrients are available to support the healthy development of the growing baby.
Important components of prenatal vitamins include:

• Folic Acid: Critical for neural tube development. It helps prevent birth defects of the brain and spine, ideally taken before and during early pregnancy.
• Iron: Supports increased blood volume and helps prevent anemia. Proper iron levels are important for both mother and baby.
• Calcium: Vital for building baby's bones and teeth. When the diet doesn't supply enough, the body will take calcium from the mother's bones.
• Vitamin D: Enhances calcium absorption and bone health.

While prenatal vitamins are important, they are meant to complement a healthy diet, not replace it.

Food Choices for Pregnant Women

Making smart food choices is essential to maintain the health and well-being of both mother and child during pregnancy. The key is to choose foods high in the essential nutrients and vitamins needed. Here are some tips for pregnant women when making food choices:

• Small Frequent Meals: Helps manage morning sickness and ensures a steady supply of nutrients.
• Hydration: Sufficient fluid intake is vital. Water, milk, and low-sugar fruit juices are preferable.
• Moderation of Caffeine: Limit caffeine consumption to reduce risk to the baby, opting for decaffeinated beverages when possible.
• Intake of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish like salmon and sardines, omega-3s support brain development.

Avoiding foods that are raw or undercooked, such as sushi and certain deli meats, helps prevent infections that could affect the pregnancy.