A client who may become pregnant asks how to reduce the risk for neural tube defects. Which teaching should the nurse provide?
1Take 400 mcg of folic acid daily before pregnancy and during early pregnancy.✓ Correct answer
2Take 400 mcg of folic acid daily starting after the first ultrasound confirms pregnancy.
3Avoid foods fortified with folic acid because they provide a less absorbable form.
4Take 400 mcg of folic acid daily if you have a family history of neural tube defects.
Explanation
Folic acid taken before pregnancy and during early pregnancy helps prevent neural tube defects, which can occur early before many people know they are pregnant. CDC recommends 400 mcg daily for people capable of becoming pregnant unless a provider prescribes a different dose. Waiting for ultrasound or symptoms is too late for primary prevention.