The nurse is providing teaching to a newly pregnant patient. The nurse advises her to take calcium and what vitamin to increase calcium absorption?

Explanation

• Vitamin D increases calcium absorption in the GI tract.

• The recommended amount of calcium during pregnancy is 1,200–1,500 mg. Women under age 24 should aim for the higher end.

• The skeleton and teeth constitute a major portion of the fetus. Initial calcification of the teeth occurs around 14 weeks. Bones begin to calcify at 12 weeks. To supply adequate calcium and phosphorus for bone formation, pregnant women need to eat food high in calcium and vitamin D.

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