NURS 2866 Ch. 9 - Maternal and Fetal Nutrition

Introduction

Chapter 9 covers maternal and fetal nutrition, highlighting the impact of nutrition on pregnancy outcomes.

What are the effects of poor maternal nutrition?

It can result in low birth weight and preterm infants.

What does nursing care for maternal nutrition include?

Nutritional assessment, diagnosis, interventions, evaluation, and referral to a dietician if needed.

What are the factors that influence nutrition (Figure 9.1)?

Health status, health service access, education, environment, personal factors (genetics, culture, socioeconomic status).

Why is folate important before conception?

It prevents neural tube defects, which occur early in pregnancy before many know they are pregnant.

Folate vs. folic acid

Folate is the natural form in food; folic acid is the synthetic form in fortified foods and supplements.

Folic acid recommendation for women of childbearing age

0.4 mg (400 mcg) daily.

What are some dietary sources of folate?

Liver, peas, beans, broccoli, avocado.

How do energy needs change during pregnancy?

Slight increase in 1st trimester; significant increase in 3rd trimester due to fetal and maternal development.

Recommended caloric intake during pregnancy

1st trimester: 1800/day; 2nd: 2200/day; 3rd: 2400/day.

How does weight gain differ by trimester?

1st trimester: 2–4 lbs total; then ~1 lb/week.

Risks of excessive weight gain during pregnancy

Hard to lose postpartum; increases risk for hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.

Why is protein important in pregnancy?

Supports fetal growth, uterine and placenta development, mammary glands, blood volume, and amniotic fluid.

Why are omega-3 fatty acids important during pregnancy?

Support fetal brain/neurological development and may reduce risk of preterm birth.

Recommended fluid intake during pregnancy

8–10 glasses per day.

Risks of dehydration in pregnancy

Can lead to complications such as contractions.

Why is iron important during pregnancy?

Supports fetal iron transfer and maternal red blood cell production.

Iron supplement recommendation

30 mg of ferrous iron daily starting by 12 weeks gestation.

Is alcohol safe during pregnancy?

No—it's contraindicated at all stages of pregnancy.

What are the concerns with caffeine during pregnancy?

High intake may cause intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).

What is pica?

Eating non-food substances or excess low-nutrient foods, often culturally influenced.

Risks associated with pica

Replaces nutrients; may introduce toxins or heavy metals.

How do nutrient needs during lactation compare to pregnancy?

Similar, but require 400–500 more calories/day during the first 6 months.

Why is fluid intake important during lactation?

It's essential for milk production.

What should be avoided during lactation?

Smoking, alcohol, excessive caffeine.

Subjective nutritional assessment includes?

Health history and food diary.

What does physical nutritional assessment involve?

Measuring height/weight and checking for malnutrition.

What should patient teaching during pregnancy include?

Nutritional needs, balanced diet, individualizing based on personal/cultural/financial/health factors.

What discomfort-related advice should be offered?

Coping strategies for nutrition-related discomforts and supplement education.

When should referrals be made?

If additional support or services are needed.

Why are cultural considerations important in prenatal nutrition?

Understanding diets helps align cultural practices with evidence-based advice.