A nurse is teaching a client who is trying to conceive.
Which of the following should the nurse instruct the client to increase in her diet to prevent a neural tube defect?

Choice A rationale:

Iron is essential for healthy blood, but it is not specifically associated with preventing neural tube defects. Iron supplementation is crucial during pregnancy to prevent iron-deficiency anemia.

Choice B rationale:

Calcium is essential for bone health, but it is not directly related to preventing neural tube defects. Adequate calcium intake is vital, especially during adolescence and pregnancy, to support bone development and maintenance.

Choice C rationale:

"Folate." This is the correct answer. Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is crucial for preventing neural tube defects. Adequate folate intake, especially before and during early pregnancy, can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects in newborns. The normal recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for folate is 400 micrograms per day for adults.

Choice D rationale:

Zinc is a mineral important for immune function and wound healing but is not specifically associated with preventing neural tube defects. Adequate zinc intake is essential for overall health, but it is not a primary nutrient targeted for neural tube defect prevention.

The correct answer is A. Interlace the fingers while rubbing hands together. This is one of the steps of performing a surgical hand scrub, which is an antiseptic surgical scrub or antiseptic hand rub that is performed prior to donning surgical attire. Interlacing the fingers helps to remove microorganisms from the spaces between the fingers and under the nails.