a. Obesity is common and frequently a serious problem among Americans.

The patient is considered overweight if she is 10 percent over her desirable weight for their height and age group. If the patient is 20 percent over her desirable weight at the beginning of the pregnancy, she is considered at risk.

b. These patients require close observation and additional education. The most frequently prescribed diet is 1500 to 1800 calories per day. The patient must be advised that this in not the time to diet to lose weight. Encouragement is greatly needed during the pregnancy.