A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of bladder cancer. Which of the following interventions should the nurse take to promote comfort?

Choice A reason : Identity refers to how individuals perceive themselves, including their beliefs, qualities, and expressions. It is the understanding of oneself as a distinct individual. In the context of the client's situation, while stress can impact one's sense of identity, the primary issue described does not directly relate to the client's identity but rather to their ability to fulfill expected roles.

Choice B reason : Role performance stressors arise when individuals feel they cannot meet the expectations associated with their social or work roles. In this case, the client is stressed due to the difficulty in balancing work responsibilities with the demands of caring for an ill family member. This indicates a conflict in role performance, as the client struggles to adequately fulfill the roles of both employee and caregiver.

Choice C reason : Body image pertains to one's perception of the physical self and the feelings associated with this perception. It includes how individuals view their own body and how they believe others perceive it. The client's stress does not stem from concerns about body image but from the pressures of their responsibilities.

Choice D reason : Self-esteem is the value one places on oneself, encompassing feelings of worthiness or unworthiness. It is influenced by various factors, including personal achievements and recognition from others. Although self-esteem can be affected by stress, the scenario provided specifically highlights the client's stress related to role fulfillment, not their self-worth.

Choice A reason : Increasing intake of saturated fats is not recommended for reducing stress. Saturated fats can contribute to the development of heart disease by raising cholesterol levels and should be limited in a healthy diet.

Choice B reason : Limiting alcohol intake is generally a good practice, but specifying "3 drinks per day" is not accurate. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

Choice C reason : Choosing complex carbohydrates each day is beneficial for managing stress. Complex carbohydrates can increase the amount of serotonin in the brain, which has a calming effect. Foods rich in complex carbohydrates include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes⁷.

Choice D reason : Consuming less than 2000 mg of sodium per day is part of a healthy diet, but it is not specifically related to stress reduction. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2300 mg a day and moving toward an ideal limit of no more than 1500 mg per day for most adults.