A nurse is caring for a client who is malnourished. The client states, "When I do eat, I usually just eat bread and butter to get something in me." The nurse should recognize that the client is at risk for which of the following complications?

Choice A reason: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for bone health, immune function, and calcium absorption. It is mainly obtained from exposure to sunlight and animal sources, such as dairy products, eggs, and fish. Vegans are at risk for vitamin D deficiency, especially if they live in areas with limited sunlight or do not take supplements.

Choice B reason: Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for collagen synthesis, wound healing, and antioxidant activity. It is abundant in plant sources, such as fruits and vegetables. Vegans are not likely to be deficient in vitamin C, unless they have a very restricted diet or a malabsorption disorder.

Choice C reason: Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in many enzymatic reactions, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and bone formation. It is widely distributed in plant and animal foods, such as nuts, seeds, legumes, grains, and green leafy vegetables. Vegans are not prone to magnesium deficiency, unless they have a chronic condition that affects magnesium absorption or excretion.

Choice D reason: Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell production. It is found in fortified grains, cereals, breads, and pasta, as well as in dark green leafy vegetables, beans, and lentils. Vegans are not at risk for folic acid deficiency, as long as they consume enough of these foods or take supplements.

Choice A reason: Calcium is not a dietary supplement that can help with wound healing, although it is important for bone health and muscle contraction. Calcium deficiency can cause osteoporosis, muscle cramps, and abnormal heart rhythms, but it does not affect wound healing.

Choice B reason: Potassium is not a dietary supplement that can help with wound healing, although it is essential for nerve and muscle function and fluid balance. Potassium deficiency can cause weakness, fatigue, arrhythmias, and muscle cramps, but it does not affect wound healing.

Choice C reason: Vitamin C is a dietary supplement that can help with wound healing, as it is involved in collagen synthesis, tissue repair, and immune response. Vitamin C deficiency can cause scurvy, which is characterized by bleeding gums, poor wound healing, and anemia.

Choice D reason: Vitamin D is not a dietary supplement that can help with wound healing, although it is necessary for calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function. Vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets, osteomalacia, and increased risk of infections, but it does not affect wound healing.