QUESTION: "A primigravida, currently about 8 weeks pregnant, and her husband, interested in childbirth preparation classes offered in the community, have their physician's support for delivery in a birthing center. The couple asks when they should begin the preparation for childbirth classes that discuss maternal and newborn nutrition during pregnancy. Which of the following times would be most appropriate for the nurse to suggest that they begin the classes? "
CHOICES
( X ) a.) As soon as the client experiences lightening.
( X ) b.) After scheduling a visit with the dietitian.
( O ) c.) Now during the first trimester of pregnancy.
( X ) d.) Toward the end of the second trimester.
RATIONALE: Early pregnancy classes, which typically focus on maternal nutrition, minor discomforts of pregnancy, and newborn nutrition, are appropriate for clients seeking early obstetric care. Typically, couples begin attending these classes during the first trimester. This allows the woman to incorporate proper nutritional guidelines into her diet. The couple then has ample time to decide the method of choice for feeding the newborn. Most clients make the decision to breast-feed or bottle-feed by the sixth month of pregnancy. Lightening occurs about 1 to 2 weeks before the beginning of labor. The couple should have attended childbirth classes before this time. Although clients often have a visit with a dietitian early in pregnancy, they need not wait for this to occur before participating in childbirth classes. Toward the end of the second trimester or the beginning of the third trimester, couples are usually psychologically ready for the pregnancy to end and are ready for classes dealing with labor and delivery, newborn care, and postpartum care. NURSING PROCESS STEP: Implementation CLIENT NEEDS CATEGORY: Health promotion and maintenance CLIENT NEEDS SUBCATEGORY: None
