How much should a client with a BMI of 23 continue to gain during the remainder of her pregnancy?

A client with a BMI of 23 falls within the normal weight range. According to guidelines established by organizations such as the Institute of Medicine, women with a normal pre-pregnancy BMI should aim to gain approximately 25 to 35 pounds during their pregnancy.

The recommendation of gaining about 1 pound (.45 kg) per week in the second and third trimesters aligns well with this overall goal. This rate of weight gain is sufficient to support the health of both the mother and the developing fetus.

Weight gain is crucial during pregnancy as it supports fetal development, the expansion of blood volume, and the accumulation of maternal fat stores necessary for breastfeeding. Therefore, the choice of gaining approximately 1 pound per week is consistent with recommendations for women starting their pregnancies with a normal BMI and promotes healthy outcomes for both the mother and baby.

The other options suggest higher rates of weight gain, which would be more appropriate for individuals who are underweight or who may have other specific health conditions needing closer monitoring. Gaining too much weight can also lead to risks such as gestational diabetes and hypertension, which underscores the importance of adhering to recommended guidelines based on initial BMI.