Which suggestions should the nurse include when teaching about appropriate weight gain in pregnancy? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Normal weight women should gain 11.5 to 16 kg during pregnancy, according to the Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines. This is based on the body mass index (BMI) of 18.5 to 24.9 before pregnancy.

Choice B reason: Underweight women should gain 12.5 to 18 kg during pregnancy, according to the IOM guidelines. This is based on the BMI of less than 18.5 before pregnancy. Underweight women are at risk of having low birth weight infants, so they need to gain more weight to support fetal growth and development.

Choice C reason: Adolescents are encouraged to strive for weight gains at the upper end of the recommended scale, according to the IOM guidelines. This is because adolescents are still growing themselves and need extra nutrients and calories to meet their own needs and those of the fetus.

Choice D reason: In twin gestations, the weight gain recommended for a single fetus pregnancy should not be simply doubled. The IOM guidelines suggest that women with twin gestations should gain 16.5 to 24.5 kg if they have a normal weight before pregnancy, 14 to 22.5 kg if they are overweight, and 11 to 19 kg if they are obese.

Choice E reason: Obese women should gain at least 7 to 11.5 kg during pregnancy, according to the IOM guidelines. This is based on the BMI of 30 or more before pregnancy. Obese women are at risk of having complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and cesarean delivery, so they need to limit their weight gain to avoid further complications.

Choice A reason: Limiting time spent wearing a wet bathing suit is a good preventive measure, as it can reduce the moisture and warmth that can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi in the genital area. The nurse should advise the 15-year old to change into dry clothes as soon as possible after swimming or bathing.

Choice B reason: Not douching is a good preventive measure, as it can preserve the natural balance of the vaginal flora and pH. The nurse should explain to the 15-year old that douching can wash away the protective mucus and lactobacilli that prevent infections, and it can also introduce harmful substances or microorganisms into the vagina.

Choice C reason: Wearing nylon undergarments is not a good preventive measure, as it can trap heat and moisture in the genital area and create a favorable environment for infections. The nurse should recommend the 15-year old to wear cotton or breathable fabrics that can absorb sweat and allow air circulation.

Choice D reason: Using floral scented bath salts is not a good preventive measure, as it can irritate the genital mucosa and alter the vaginal pH. The nurse should caution the 15-year old to avoid using any products that contain perfumes, dyes, or chemicals in the genital area, as they can cause allergic reactions or infections.

Choice E reason: Decreasing sugar intake is a good preventive measure, as it can lower the risk of yeast infections. The nurse should educate the 15-year old that sugar can feed the growth of Candida albicans, which is a common cause of vaginal candidiasis. The nurse should also encourage the 15-year old to eat a balanced diet that includes probiotics, such as yogurt, to maintain a healthy vaginal flora.

Choice F reason: Avoiding tight-fitting jeans is a good preventive measure, as it can prevent friction and pressure on the genital area. The nurse should suggest the 15-year old to wear loose or comfortable clothing that can reduce the risk of skin irritation or injury, which can lead to infections.