A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus and has a referral for a dietary consult. The client tells the nurse, "I will have to eat whatever the dietitian tells me." Which of the following statements by the nurse encourages the client's involvement in their plan of care?

Choice A reason: Constipation can be a side effect of many cancer treatments, including radiation therapy. However, it is not commonly associated with targeted radiation therapy to the neck. Constipation is more often related to opioid pain medications, decreased physical activity, or dietary changes that a patient may experience during cancer treatment.

Choice B reason: Decreased tear production is not a typical side effect of targeted radiation therapy to the neck. This condition, known as dry eye syndrome, is more commonly associated with radiation therapy that affects the eye or orbital area directly.

Choice C reason: Mouth ulcers, also known as mucositis, are a common adverse effect of radiation therapy to the neck. Radiation can damage the mucosal lining of the mouth, leading to painful sores that can affect a patient's ability to eat, speak, and swallow. These ulcers typically develop one to two weeks after starting treatment and may persist for some time after the treatment ends.

Choice D reason: Peripheral neuropathy, which involves damage to the peripheral nerves and often results in symptoms like numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet, is not a common side effect of radiation therapy to the neck. It is more frequently associated with certain chemotherapeutic agents or radiation therapy to areas of the body where peripheral nerves are located.

Choice A reason: Instructing the client to avoid eating raw vegetables may be a precautionary measure due to potential immunosuppression from AIDS, but it does not directly demonstrate advocacy. Advocacy would involve actions that support the client's rights, choices, and interests, and while dietary advice is important, it is not an advocacy action in itself.

Choice B reason: Initiating a referral for the client to a home health agency is a clear demonstration of client advocacy. This action shows that the nurse is taking steps to ensure the client receives the necessary support to manage their condition at home, respecting their wish to maintain independence and quality of life.

Choice C reason: Reminding the client of the importance of medication adherence is part of the nurse's educational role but does not necessarily reflect advocacy. Advocacy would involve more proactive measures to support the client's treatment and care decisions.

Choice D reason: Telling the client to avoid places where there are large crowds of people is good advice to reduce the risk of infections, but it is not an advocacy action. Advocacy involves representing the client's interests and facilitating their choices and access to care.