A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who is at 24 weeks of gestation.
The client's prepregnancy weight was within the recommended range for their height and they have gained 2.7 kg (6 lb) during the pregnancy.
Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Choice A rationale

Gaining 2 pounds per week throughout the rest of pregnancy is excessive and not recommended. Normal weight gain is approximately 1 pound per week in the second and third trimesters.

Choice B rationale

Dieting during pregnancy can lead to inadequate nutrient intake for both the mother and the developing fetus. It is essential to focus on a balanced diet rather than trying to lose weight.

Choice C rationale

Meeting with a dietitian can help the client assess their nutritional needs and develop a healthy eating plan to support their pregnancy, ensuring both maternal and fetal health.

Choice D rationale

Eating an additional 700 calories per day is too high. Generally, an additional 300-500 calories per day is recommended during the second and third trimesters to support pregnancy. .

The nurse should identify that the client is at the greatest risk for preterm birth due to:

Response 1: B) being higher than normal (fetal fibronectin: 0.09 mcg/mL is higher than the normal level of ≤ 0.05 mcg/mL).

Response 2: B) Nitrazine and ferning tests negative

Here's the

• Fetal Fibronectin: Fetal fibronectin is a protein found between the amniotic sac and the uterine lining. Levels greater than 0.05 mcg/mL (like 0.09 mcg/mL) indicate an increased risk of preterm labor.
• Nitrazine and Ferning Tests: Both tests being negative indicates that there is no rupture of membranes. Even though these tests are negative, the elevated fetal fibronectin level still indicates a risk for preterm birth.

So the completed sentence would be: The nurse should identify that the client is at the greatest risk for preterm birth due to fetal fibronectin being higher than normal and Nitrazine and ferning tests negative.

This combination of findings suggests that preterm labor may be imminent despite the lack of membrane rupture. The elevated fetal fibronectin is a strong indicator of risk.