OPTIMAL NUTRITION AND PRENATAL CARE FOR LOW-INCOME WOMEN-THE ROLE OF THE NURSE
Keywords:
Prenatal Care, Nutrition, Low-Income Women, Maternal Health, Nursing Interventions, Health Disparities, Public Health Nursing, Community-Based Care, Nutritional Deficiencies, Policy InterventionsAbstract
Proper nutrition and comprehensive prenatal care are essential for ensuring healthy pregnancy outcomes, particularly among low-income women who face heightened risks due to economic and social barriers. This review article explores the multifaceted challenges in providing optimal nutrition and prenatal care to low-income women and the critical role of nurses in mitigating these challenges. Through an evidence-based analysis, the article examines the impact of nutrition on pregnancy outcomes, the barriers to accessing adequate care, and the strategies nurses can employ to support this vulnerable population. The article concludes with recommendations for nursing practice, policy interventions, and community-based programs that can improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes among low-income women.
