For a pregnant client with a BMI of 23, what is the appropriate weight gain recommendation?

The appropriate weight gain recommendation for a pregnant client with a BMI of 23 is 25 to 35 lb. This range is aligned with the guidelines provided by organizations such as the Institute of Medicine (IOM), which suggest that women with a pre-pregnancy BMI classified as overweight (BMI of 25-29.9) should aim for this amount of weight gain during pregnancy.

The rationale behind this guideline is based on the need for sufficient nutritional support for fetal development and maternal health without leading to excessive weight gain that could pose risks to both the mother and the baby. Weight gain in this range helps to ensure that the fetus receives adequate nutrition while also helping to prevent complications such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, as well as minimizing the risk of postpartum weight retention.

Other ranges, such as those suggesting lower amounts like 10 to 15 lb or 15 to 20 lb, would not provide enough incremental weight for the needs of the developing fetus and could lead to potential complications. At the same time, recommendations for weight gain above 35 lb might be excessive and could increase health risks associated with excessive weight gain during pregnancy. Thus, the 25 to 35 lb recommendation is the most appropriate for this client's