The nurse is teaching a pregnant client about nutritional needs during pregnancy. Which menu selection will best meet the nutritional needs of the pregnant client? A. Hamburger pattie, green beans, French fries, and iced tea B. Roast beef sandwich, potato chips, baked beans, and cola C. Baked chicken, fruit cup, potato salad, coleslaw, yogurt, and iced tea D. Fish sandwich, gelatin with fruit, and coffee

Pregnant women need a well-balanced diet to support the growth and development of the baby. Their nutritional requirements include an increase in protein, vitamins and minerals (such as iron, calcium, and folic acid), and adequate fluid intake while limiting excessive fat, sugar, and caffeine intake.

Now that we know the nutritional needs of a pregnant woman, let's evaluate each menu choice: A. Hamburger pattie, green beans, French fries, and iced tea: This option provides protein from the hamburger pattie and some vitamins and minerals from the green beans. However, French fries are high in fat and the iced tea may contain caffeine. B. Roast beef sandwich, potato chips, baked beans, and cola: The roast beef sandwich provides protein, and baked beans offer some vitamins and minerals. However, potato chips are high in fat, and cola contains both sugar and caffeine. C. Baked chicken, fruit cup, potato salad, coleslaw, yogurt, and iced tea: This option has a better balance of nutrients. Baked chicken provides protein, fruit cup contains essential vitamins and minerals, yogurt provides calcium, and the potato salad and coleslaw offer some additional nutrients. The iced tea can contain caffeine, but overall this option covers the nutrients needed. D. Fish sandwich, gelatin with fruit, and coffee: Fish sandwich offers protein and perhaps some healthy omega-3 fatty acids, while the gelatin with fruit provides some vitamins and minerals. However, coffee is high in caffeine and should be avoided or limited.

Based on the analysis of each option's nutritional value and the needs of a pregnant woman: Option C (Baked chicken, fruit cup, potato salad, coleslaw, yogurt, and iced tea) is the best choice to meet the nutritional needs of the pregnant client.