A client returns for her 6-month prenatal checkup and has gained 10 lb in 2 months. The results of her physical examination are normal. How does the nurse interpret the effectiveness of the instruction about diet and weight control?

She is probably not compliant with her diet and exercise program. Recommended weight gain during second and third trimesters is approximately 12 lb. Because of her excessive weight gain of 10 lb in 2 months, she needs re-evaluation of her eating habits and reinforcement of proper dietary habits for pregnancy. A 2200-calorie diet is recommended for most pregnant women with a weight gain of 27-30 lb over the 9-month period. With rapid and excessive weight gain, PIH should also be suspected. She does not need to increase her caloric intake, but she does need to re-evaluate dietary habits. Ten pounds in 2 months is excessive weight gain during pregnancy, and health teaching is warranted. Restrictive dieting is not recommended during pregnancy.