FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

For a pregnant woman who has gained 4 lbs by 10 weeks gestation, what is the appropriate weight gain range according to guidelines?

1. 15 to 25 pounds

2. 5 to 15 pounds

3. 25 to 35 pounds

4. 30 to 40 pounds

The correct answer is: 25 to 35 pounds

The appropriate weight gain range for a pregnant woman during the first trimester, which includes the period from conception to 13 weeks of gestation, generally allows for a weight gain of 1 to 5 pounds. According to guidelines, the total recommended weight gain during the entire pregnancy varies based on pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI). For women of average weight (BMI 18.5 – 24.9), the total recommended weight gain is approximately 25 to 35 pounds. In this case, the weight gain of 4 pounds by 10 weeks gestation is within the acceptable range for the first trimester, and if we consider the entire pregnancy, the total recommendations fall within the range indicated in choice 'C' (25 to 35 pounds). This reflects the proper balance needed to support fetal growth and maternal health. Options indicating lower or higher ranges do not align with standard guidelines based on BMI classifications, which emphasize that women who start pregnancy at a normal weight should aim for a total weight gain that helps optimize health outcomes for both mother and child. Thus, the range of 25 to 35 pounds is indeed appropriate for a pregnant woman with an average pre-pregnancy BMI.