What is an appropriate nursing action for a patient with a history of spina bifida in previous pregnancies?

Recommending folic acid supplementation is a crucial nursing action for a patient with a history of spina bifida in previous pregnancies due to the established role of folic acid in reducing the risk of neural tube defects. Spina bifida is one of the most common neural tube defects, and research has shown that adequate levels of folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy can significantly lower the incidence of such defects. For women with a history of spina bifida, it's particularly important to emphasize folic acid intake, as they are at higher risk for having children with similar conditions.

Healthcare providers typically recommend a daily supplement of folic acid (often at higher doses) for women planning to become pregnant, especially those with a personal or family history of spine or neural tube defects. This preventive measure is part of comprehensive preconception care aimed at improving maternal and neonatal outcomes.

In contrast, while encouraging physical activity and suggesting weight gain may be relevant considerations at different times during pregnancy, they do not specifically address the risk associated with spina bifida. Additional ultrasounds may also be helpful in monitoring fetal development but are not a primary preventive strategy like folic acid supplementation.