A nurse is discussing recommendations for daily nutrient intake during pregnancy with a client who is at 10 weeks of gestation. For which of the following nutrients should the nurse instruct the client to increase intake during pregnancy?

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring fluid intake is important for any newborn, but it is not the priority intervention for a small for gestational age (SGA) newborn. SGA infants are at risk of hypoglycemia due to limited glycogen stores, and monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial in identifying and managing hypoglycemia.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring axillary temperature is essential for all newborns to assess their thermoregulation. However, it is not the priority intervention for an SGA newborn. Hypoglycemia is a more immediate concern and must be addressed promptly.

Choice C rationale:

Monitoring blood glucose levels is the priority intervention for an SGA newborn. As mentioned earlier, SGA infants are at higher risk of hypoglycemia, which can lead to serious complications if not managed appropriately. By monitoring blood glucose levels, the nurse can detect and address hypoglycemia early.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring weight is important for tracking the growth and development of the newborn, but it is not the priority intervention in this scenario. The immediate concern for an SGA newborn is their blood glucose levels.

Choice A rationale:

Assisting the client to a sitz bath is not the priority action in this situation. The client has soaked two perineal pads in the past 30 minutes, indicating excessive bleeding, which requires immediate attention.

Choice B rationale:

Assessing the client's uterine tone is essential to determine if the uterus is contracting appropriately. Uterine atony, where the uterus fails to contract after childbirth, is a common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. Assessing the tone helps identify this issue and allows for timely interventions.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the client to breastfeed may have benefits such as promoting uterine contractions through oxytocin release. However, the priority in this scenario is addressing the potential postpartum hemorrhage.

Choice D rationale:

Applying an ice pack to the client's perineum may provide comfort, but it does not address the concerning symptom of excessive bleeding and potential postpartum hemorrhage.