A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving chemotherapy treatments. The client states, "I feel so nauseated after my treatments." Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide the client? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Checking the client's deep tendon reflexes every 4 hr is a appropriate action for a nurse to take for a client who has hypomagnesemia. Hypomagnesemia is a low level of magnesium in the blood, which can cause neuromuscular excitability and hyperreflexia. The nurse should monitor the client's reflexes for signs of increased or decreased response, which can indicate worsening or improving hypomagnesemia.

Choice B reason: Encouraging the client to consume more fiber is not a relevant action for a nurse to take for a client who has hypomagnesemia. Fiber is beneficial for digestive health and blood glucose control, but it has no direct effect on magnesium levels. The nurse should encourage the client to consume foods that are rich in magnesium, such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains.

Choice C reason: Restricting the client's fluid intake to 500 mL/day is not a safe or effective action for a nurse to take for a client who has hypomagnesemia. Fluid restriction can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney damage, which can worsen hypomagnesemia. The nurse should maintain the client's fluid balance and monitor their urine output and specific gravity.

Choice D reason: Limiting sodium-containing foods on the client's meal tray is not a necessary action for a nurse to take for a client who has hypomagnesemia. Sodium is not directly related to magnesium levels, and limiting sodium intake can cause hyponatremia, which is a low level of sodium in the blood. The nurse should ensure that the client receives adequate sodium intake from their diet or supplements.

The correct answer is: b. Offer the client frozen bananas as a snack.

Choice A: Discourage the use of a straw

Discouraging the use of a straw is not the best intervention for a client with stomatitis following radiation therapy. While using a straw might cause some discomfort, it is not a primary concern. The focus should be on providing soothing and non-irritating foods.

Choice B: Offer the client frozen bananas as a snack

Offering the client frozen bananas as a snack is an appropriate intervention. Frozen bananas can provide a soothing effect on the inflamed oral tissues and are less likely to cause irritation compared to other foods. They are also nutritious and easy to consume, making them a suitable option for clients with stomatitis.

Choice C: Serve the client hot meals

Serving hot meals is not recommended for clients with stomatitis. Hot foods can exacerbate the discomfort and irritation in the mouth, making it more painful for the client to eat. It is better to serve foods at a moderate or cool temperature to avoid further irritation.

Choice D: Avoid serving sauces or gravies

Avoiding sauces or gravies is not the best intervention for a client with stomatitis. While some sauces or gravies might be irritating, others can be soothing and help make the food easier to swallow. The key is to choose mild and non-spicy options that do not irritate the oral tissues.