Which nutrient is essential for preventing anemia in pregnant women?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Iron. Iron is essential for preventing anemia in pregnant women because it is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues and organs. During pregnancy, the demand for iron increases to support the growing fetus and the mother's increased blood volume. Without adequate iron intake, pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing iron-deficiency anemia, which can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. Other choices are incorrect because: A: Vitamin C is important for iron absorption but does not directly prevent anemia. B: Vitamin D is important for bone health but does not prevent anemia. D: Calcium is important for bone health but does not prevent anemia in pregnant women.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal of health education is to change behavior for improved health. This involves educating individuals on healthy lifestyle choices, preventive measures, and disease management strategies. By empowering individuals with knowledge and skills, health education aims to promote better health outcomes. Diagnosing diseases (choice A) and providing emergency medical care (choice C) are responsibilities of healthcare professionals, not the primary goal of health education. Performing surgeries (choice D) is a medical intervention and not within the scope of health education's primary goal.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step 1: Weight monitoring is crucial to assess maternal health and fetal growth. Step 2: Blood pressure measurement helps detect and manage hypertension in pregnancy. Step 3: Nutritional counseling ensures proper intake of nutrients for maternal and fetal well-being. Step 4: All components (A, B, C) are essential for a comprehensive antenatal care program to address different aspects of maternal and fetal health. Thus, D is the correct answer. Weight monitoring, blood pressure measurement, and nutritional counseling are all vital components of antenatal care to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administering antiretroviral therapy. Antiretroviral therapy helps reduce the viral load in the mother, decreasing the risk of transmitting HIV to the child during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. It is a proven method recommended by the World Health Organization. A: Exclusive breastfeeding can increase the risk of HIV transmission to the child if the mother is HIV positive. C: Using unsterilized medical equipment can increase the risk of HIV transmission. D: Avoiding prenatal care can lead to missed opportunities for prevention and treatment interventions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months provides complete nutrition for the infant, meeting all their dietary needs. Breast milk contains essential nutrients and antibodies that support healthy growth and development. It also helps to strengthen the baby's immune system and reduce the risk of infections. Ensuring complete nutrition through breastfeeding is crucial for optimal health outcomes in the early stages of life. Preventing childhood obesity, increasing the risk of allergies, and delaying cognitive development are not directly linked to exclusive breastfeeding and are therefore incorrect choices.