A nurse is reinforcing dietary teaching with a client whose prepregnancy BMI was 30.5. The nurse should include that which of the following is an acceptable weight gain for this client?

A. 32 lb: A weight gain of 32 lb exceeds the recommended range for a client with a prepregnancy BMI ≥30 (obese). Excessive weight gain increases the risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and complications during delivery. Staying within guideline ranges supports maternal and fetal health. B. 8 lb: A gain of 8 lb is below the recommended range and may indicate inadequate nutrition, which can compromise fetal growth and development. Clients with obesity are advised to gain more than this to support a healthy pregnancy while avoiding excessive weight. C. 24 lb: A gain of 24 lb slightly exceeds the recommended range for obese clients. While less risky than very high gains, it may still increase the likelihood of postpartum weight retention and obstetric complications. D. 16 lb: For a prepregnancy BMI ≥30, the recommended total weight gain is 11–20 lb. A gain of 16 lb falls within this guideline, balancing the needs of fetal growth while minimizing maternal and fetal complications. This makes it the most appropriate target for dietary teaching.