. "3 Basic and Special Nutrition Services for Women in the Preconceptional, Prenatal, and Postpartum Periods." Nutrition Services in Perinatal Care: Second Edition. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 1992.
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Nutrition Services in Perinatal Care
Monitor and interpret weight changes during pregnancy and post partum.
Health Maintenance Skills
Provide basic nutrition education about pregnancy and lactation to individuals and groups.
Assist women to set realistic goals and behavioral objectives targeted toward improving or maintaining their nutritional status.
Effectively communicate the benefits of breastfeeding, techniques for establishing and maintaining breastfeeding, and strategies for overcoming common obstacles to successful lactation.
Provide guidance concerning appropriate weight management.
Educate or counsel women concerning the appropriate use of supplements.
Intervention Skills
Following established guidelines or protocols, provide basic individualized diet counseling for improving nutrient intake, managing common dietary problems, and addressing inadequate or excessive weight gain.
Advise on the appropriate use of nutrient supplements for special circumstances.
Assist the woman to arrange for adequate access to food and other needed resources.
Arrange for appropriate referral to a dietitian for more thorough assessment and intervention.
Work with translators, interpreters, or peer counselors as needed for effective care delivery.
Management of the Organization and Delivery of Nutritional Care
Provide organized in-service education to the health care team (including community outreach workers and peer counselors) concerning the rationale for and the effective delivery of basic nutrition services.
Participate in evaluation of the overall quality of nutrition services and in identification of appropriate adjustments in care delivery.
Develop strategies for achieving consistent educational messages and nutritional care practices by various health team members and for triggering appropriate follow-up when there is a change in providers.
