Which of the following statements about the various forms of hepatitis is accurate?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Decreased production of erythrocytes (red blood cells) is a consequence, not a cause, of iron deficiency anemia. Iron is needed to make hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in the red blood cells. Without enough iron, the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin or red blood cells¹.

Choice B reason: This is correct. Inadequate intake of iron is the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Pregnant women need more iron than nonpregnant women to support the increased blood volume and the fetal growth. If the dietary intake of iron is not sufficient, the body will use up its iron stores, leading to iron deficiency anemia.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Dilution of hemoglobin concentration is a normal physiological change during pregnancy, not a cause of iron deficiency anemia. The blood volume increases by 20% to 30% during pregnancy, while the red blood cell mass increases by only 15% to 20%. This results in a lower concentration of hemoglobin in the blood, but not necessarily a lower amount of hemoglobin or iron³.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. The fetus establishing iron stores is not a cause of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy, although it can contribute to it. The fetus needs iron for its own development and growth, and it obtains iron from the mother through the placenta. The fetal iron demand increases in the second and third trimesters, when the fetus accumulates iron in its liver and other tissues. This can deplete the maternal iron stores, especially if the mother does not consume enough iron.

Choice A reason: Assessing the fetal heart rate pattern is the priority nursing action following an amniotomy because it can indicate the well-being of the fetus and the presence of any complications, such as cord compression, prolapse, or infection.

Choice B reason: Observing the color and consistency of fluid is an important nursing action following an amniotomy, but it is not the priority. It can provide information about the gestational age, the presence of meconium, or the risk of infection.

Choice C reason: Assessing the client's temperature is an important nursing action following an amniotomy, but it is not the priority. It can help detect signs of infection, such as chorioamnionitis, which can affect both the mother and the fetus.

Choice D reason: Evaluating the client for the presence of chills and increased tenderness using palpation is an important nursing action following an amniotomy, but it is not the priority. It can also help detect signs of infection, such as chorioamnionitis, which can cause fever, abdominal pain, and uterine contractions.