A nurse is reinforcing teaching about nutrition with a client who is pregnant and has hyperemesis gravidarum at home.
Which of the following statements indicates that the client understands the teaching?

Choice A rationale:

The statement, "I will eat every 6 hours throughout the day," is not the best approach for a client with hyperemesis gravidarum. Eating at regular intervals may not be well-tolerated in this condition, as frequent nausea and vomiting can make it challenging to keep food down.

Choice B rationale:

The statement, "I will drink water with my meals," is generally a good practice during pregnancy to stay hydrated. However, for a client with hyperemesis gravidarum, it may be advisable to separate fluid intake from meals to minimize the risk of triggering nausea.

Choice C rationale:

The statement, "I will limit my protein intake," is not a recommended approach, especially for a pregnant client. Protein is essential for fetal development, and limiting protein intake may not provide adequate nutrition for the growing fetus.

Choice D rationale:

The statement, "I will eat crackers before I get out of bed in the morning," is a good strategy for managing morning sickness, which is common in pregnancy. Eating plain crackers before getting out of bed can help alleviate nausea and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Choice A rationale: Decreased energy is a common symptom during pregnancy, especially in the first and third trimesters. This is typically due to hormonal changes, increased demands on the body, and changes in sleep patterns. While decreased energy can be uncomfortable, it is usually not a sign of a serious problem and does not require immediate medical attention unless it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Choice B rationale: Urinary frequency is another common symptom during pregnancy, caused by hormonal changes and the growing uterus putting pressure on the bladder. This symptom is usually most noticeable in the first and third trimesters. While it can be inconvenient, it is generally not a cause for concern and does not require a call to the healthcare provider unless it is accompanied by pain or other symptoms suggestive of a urinary tract infection.

Choice C rationale: Mood swings are a frequent occurrence during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations. Pregnant individuals may experience a wide range of emotions, from happiness and excitement to anxiety and irritability. While mood swings can be challenging to manage, they are typically not a sign of a serious problem and do not necessitate immediate medical attention unless they are severe and impact daily functioning.

Choice D rationale: Facial edema, or swelling of the face, can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition that can occur during pregnancy. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and can lead to complications for both the mother and baby if left untreated. Other signs of preeclampsia can include severe headaches, visual disturbances, and rapid weight gain. If a pregnant individual experiences facial edema, it is important to contact their healthcare provider promptly for evaluation and management.