A nurse is providing nutritional advice to a woman considering pregnancy.
What information should the nurse include to minimize the risk of having a newborn with a neural tube defect?

Choice A rationale

Moderate exercise improves circulation. This statement is accurate and should be included in the teaching. Regular moderate exercise during pregnancy can have many benefits, including improved circulation, which can help reduce swelling and varicose veins. It can also help manage weight gain, improve mood and energy levels, reduce pregnancy discomfort, prepare the body for labor, and boost stamina for labor and delivery.

Choice B rationale

Refrain from exercises that include stretching. This statement is not accurate and should not be included in the teaching. Stretching exercises can be beneficial during pregnancy. They can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, alleviate pregnancy discomfort, and prevent muscle imbalances. However, pregnant women should be careful not to stretch too far, as the hormones produced during pregnancy can make the ligaments more flexible and easier to stretch, increasing the risk of injuries.

Choice C rationale

It is recommended to rest for 30 minutes before each new exercise. This statement is not accurate and should not be included in the teaching. While it’s important for pregnant women to rest and avoid overexertion, there’s no specific recommendation to rest for 30 minutes before each new exercise. Instead, pregnant women should listen to their bodies and rest as needed.

Choice D rationale

It is recommended to increase your weight-bearing exercises. This statement is not accurate and should not be included in the teaching. While weight-bearing exercises can be beneficial, they should be done with caution during pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid heavy weights and exercises that put pressure on the joints, increase the risk of injury, or cause discomfort. Instead, they should focus on exercises that strengthen the muscles and improve balance and flexibility.

Choice A rationale

While follow-up testing is important for individuals diagnosed with chlamydia, retesting is typically recommended 3 months after treatment, not 6 months.

Choice B rationale

This is the correct statement. Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics, and a single dose of azithromycin is one of the recommended treatments.

Choice C rationale

This statement is incorrect. Even if a sexual partner of a person diagnosed with chlamydia has no symptoms, they still need to be tested and treated if necessary. Chlamydia can be asymptomatic, and untreated chlamydia can lead to serious health problems.

Choice D rationale

While abstaining from sexual relations until treatment is complete is recommended, it is not the only necessary step. The client’s sexual partners also need to be informed, tested, and treated if necessary.