A nurse is caring for a newborn who was born at 38 weeks of gestation, weighs 3,200 g, and is in the 60th percentile for weight.

How should the nurse classify this neonate based on the weight and gestational age?

Choice A rationale
The nurse should be concerned about a client with an 18kg (4 lb) weight gain in her first trimester. This is because the expected weight gain for a client in the first trimester is usually around 1.8 kg (4 lb)1. A weight gain of 18 kg in the first trimester significantly exceeds this expectation, which could indicate a potential health issue such as gestational diabetes or multiple pregnancies. It’s important for the nurse to report this finding to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
Choice B rationale
A client with a 68 kg (15 lb) weight gain in her second trimester does not necessarily pose a concern. Weight gain during pregnancy varies among individuals and can be influenced by factors such as the mother’s body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy, the baby’s growth rate, and the mother’s diet and lifestyle. However, it’s always important to monitor weight gain throughout pregnancy to ensure it’s within a healthy range.
Choice C rationale
A client with a 13 kg (25 lb) weight gain in her third trimester does not necessarily pose a concern. Weight gain during the third trimester can be influenced by factors such as the baby’s growth rate, amniotic fluid volume, and the mother’s increased blood volume. However, it’s always important to monitor weight gain throughout pregnancy to ensure it’s within a healthy range.
Choice D rationale
A client with a 3.6 kg (8 lb) weight gain in her first trimester does not necessarily pose a concern. This is within the expected weight gain range for the first trimester. However, it’s always important to monitor weight gain throughout pregnancy to ensure it’s within a healthy range.

Choice A rationale
The statement “I only need to catheterize myself twice every day” should alert the nurse to the need for further education. Individuals with spina bifida who are paralyzed from the waist down often need to perform clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) every 3-4 hours to empty the bladder and prevent urinary tract infections.
Choice B rationale
Using a suppository every night to have a bowel movement is a common practice among individuals with spina bifida. Due to the paralysis, they often have difficulty with bowel movements and may use suppositories or other methods to stimulate bowel movements.
Choice C rationale
Doing wheelchair exercises while watching TV is a good practice for individuals with spina bifida. Regular physical activity can help improve strength, flexibility, and overall health.
Choice D rationale
Carrying a water bottle and drinking a lot of water is a good practice for individuals with spina bifida. Adequate hydration can help prevent urinary tract infections and kidney stones, which are common complications in individuals who perform CIC78910.