The nurse is teaching the patient how to prevent backaches during pregnancy. Which of the following self-care measures should the patient take? (Select All that Apply).

A. Avoid exaggerating the lumbar curve: This helps maintain better posture and reduces the strain on the lower back, preventing backaches.

B. Applying localized cold compress: Cold compresses may be helpful for acute injuries but are not a primary recommendation for preventing pregnancy-related backaches.

C. Using a cane when walking: This is not typically recommended unless there is a medical condition or injury. Most pregnant women can benefit from posture correction and strength exercises rather than reliance on a cane.

D. Wearing low-heeled shoes: This is recommended because low-heeled shoes provide better support and help maintain proper posture, reducing the risk of back pain during pregnancy.

E. Not doing exercises such as tailor sitting cross-legged, shoulder circling, and pelvic rocking: This statement is incorrect. These exercises, particularly pelvic rocking and shoulder circling, are actually helpful in preventing and alleviating back pain by improving flexibility and strengthening muscles. Avoiding such exercises may be detrimental.

A. A decrease in saliva production may aggravate the disorder is incorrect. While excessive salivation (ptyalism) is a symptom of hyperemesis gravidarum, a decrease in saliva production is not the primary factor contributing to the disorder.

B. Decreasing gastric secretions lead to increased nausea is incorrect. While nausea and vomiting are key features of hyperemesis gravidarum, the decrease in gastric secretions does not directly cause it. The disorder is typically associated with an increase in hCG, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.

C. An increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels may contribute to this disorder is correct. Hyperemesis gravidarum is often linked to elevated levels of hCG, a hormone produced during pregnancy, which may lead to increased nausea and vomiting.

D. Symptoms begin and are most severe during the second trimester of pregnancy is incorrect. Hyperemesis gravidarum typically presents in the first trimester and may improve after that, although severe cases can last longer.