The nurse is conducting a prenatal nutrition education class for a group of nursing students. Which statement best describes the condition known as pica?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ingestion of nonfood substances. Pica is a condition where individuals have a persistent craving to eat items that are not considered food, such as dirt, clay, or ice. This behavior can be seen in pregnant women due to nutritional deficiencies or psychological factors. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe pica. Iron-deficiency anemia (A) is a condition related to low iron levels in the blood, intolerance to milk products (B) is a lactose intolerance issue, and episodes of anorexia and vomiting (D) are symptoms of eating disorders, not pica.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because evaluating the pattern of weight gain in pregnancy helps identify potential nutritional problems or complications. Monitoring weight gain can indicate if the woman is receiving adequate nutrition for fetal development, detect issues like gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia, and ensure overall maternal and fetal health. Incorrect choice analysis: A: Preventing excessive adipose tissue deposits is important, but the primary reason for evaluating weight gain in pregnancy is to identify nutritional problems and complications. B: Cultural influences on diet are relevant but not the most important reason for evaluating weight gain. C: Limiting caloric intake in obese women is important, but evaluating weight gain is more about ensuring proper nutrition and detecting complications rather than focusing solely on caloric restriction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Legumes. Legumes such as chickpeas, lentils, and beans are rich sources of calcium. They provide a plant-based alternative for calcium intake. Legumes are also high in fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients beneficial for pregnancy. Lean meat (B) and yellow vegetables (D) are not significant sources of calcium. While whole grains (C) offer some calcium, they are not as high in calcium content as legumes. Therefore, for a pregnant patient looking to increase calcium intake without relying on dairy products, legumes are the most recommended food group.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because identifying the food preferences and methods of food preparation common to the patient's culture is crucial in understanding cultural influences on their diet. This step helps the nurse tailor dietary recommendations that align with the patient's cultural background and preferences, promoting better adherence and health outcomes. Option A is incorrect as weight gain during pregnancy is not directly related to cultural influences on diet. Option B, assessing socioeconomic status, is important but not the primary action for understanding cultural influences on diet. Option C, discussing the four food groups, is too generic and does not specifically address cultural influences on diet.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer A: The correct answer is A because it addresses the specific nutritional needs of a pregnant adolescent by considering her growth and weight gain requirements. It is essential to determine the appropriate weight gain based on the adolescent's pre-pregnancy weight and BMI to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Adding a standard amount (usually around 35 lb) on top of the recommended weight gain for adolescents accounts for the additional needs of the growing fetus. Summary of Incorrect Choices: B: This choice focuses on avoiding fast food restaurants but does not address the specific nutritional needs of a pregnant adolescent. C: Assuming that most adolescents are unwilling to make dietary changes is a generalization and does not provide tailored guidance for the individual's needs. D: While emphasizing the need to eliminate unhealthy snacks is important, it does not address the overall nutritional requirements and weight gain needed for a pregnant adolescent.