A nurse is teaching a client who is in her first trimester of pregnancy about over-the-counter medications that are a pregnancy risk category B. Which of the following medications should the nurse include?

Choice A reason:

Naproxen is classified as a pregnancy category B medication during the first and second trimesters but becomes category D in the third trimester due to potential risks to the fetus. It is generally advised to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen during pregnancy unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.

Choice B reason:

Aspirin is not considered safe during pregnancy, especially in higher doses. It is classified as category D in the third trimester due to risks such as premature closure of the ductus arteriosus and potential bleeding complications. Low-dose aspirin may be prescribed in specific cases, but it is not generally recommended as an over-the-counter option for pregnant women.

Choice C reason:

Ibuprofen, like naproxen, is an NSAID and is classified as category B during the first and second trimesters but category D in the third trimester. It is generally advised to avoid ibuprofen during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.

Choice D reason:

Acetaminophen is classified as a pregnancy category B medication and is considered safe for use during all trimesters of pregnancy. It is the preferred over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic for pregnant women due to its safety profile. Acetaminophen does not carry the same risks as NSAIDs and is widely used to manage pain and fever during pregnancy.