Physiological Integrity: Basic Care and Comfort-Nutrition
25. A client is attending a class on prenatal nutrition. The client asks why vitamin C is important during pregnancy. A nurse's best response would be:
Physiological Integrity: Basic Care and Comfort-Nutrition
25. A client is attending a class on prenatal nutrition. The client asks why vitamin C is important during pregnancy. A nurse's best response would be:
. Vitamin C is needed to promote collagen formation.
. Eating foods high in vitamin C helps metabolize fats and carbohydrates.
. Supplemental vitamin C in large doses can prevent neural tube defects.
. Studies have shown that vitamin C deficiency leads to pregnancy-induced hypertension.
Test-Taking Tip
Since the cause of pregnancy-induced hypertension has not been found, eliminate the response that correlates vitamin C deficiency and pregnancy-induced hypertension (Answer 4). Eliminate Answers 2 and 3, as they relate to vitamin B complex and folic acid.
Content Area: Maternity, Antepartum; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Implementation; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Basic Care and Comfort/Nutrition and Oral Hydration
Physiological Integrity: Basic Care and Comfort-Nutrition
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Answer 1 is correct because vitamin C is important in the synthesis of collagen, which is the main structural component of the skin as well as many other body tissues. Vitamin C also works as a powerful antioxidant, aids in the absorption of iron, is critical in fighting off infections, helps alleviate allergic reactions, and aids in wound healing. Vitamin C helps the fetus grow and builds strong bones and teeth. Answer 2 is incorrect because vitamin C does not assist in metabolizing fats and carbohydrates. Vitamin B complex, especially thiamine, helps with metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Answer 3 is incorrect because folic acid, not vitamin C, prevents neural tube defects. Answer 4 is incorrect because there are no studies that have shown that vitamin C deficiency leads to pregnancy-induced hypertension.