Needs of Maternal and Reproductive Health Clients Related

Review Needs of Maternal and Reproductive Health Clients related questions and content

Which patient is most at risk for a low-birth-weight infant?

  • A. 22-year-old, 60 inches tall, normal prepregnant weight
  • B. 18-year-old, 64 inches tall, body mass index is <18.5
  • C. 30-year-old, 78 inches tall, prepregnant weight is 15 lb above the norm
  • D. 35-year-old, 75 inches tall, total weight gain in previous pregnancies was 33 lb
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because a low body mass index (<18.5) indicates underweight, which is a risk factor for delivering a low-birth-weight infant. Underweight individuals may have inadequate nutrition and lower reserves for a healthy pregnancy.

Choice A is less likely as the patient has a normal prepregnant weight. Choice C's prepregnant weight being above the norm suggests a healthy weight. Choice D's total weight gain in previous pregnancies being 33 lb indicates a healthy weight maintenance during pregnancy.