A nurse is providing teaching about the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet to a client who has hypertension. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Limit sodium intake to 3,200 milligrams per day.
Increase intake of refined carbohydrates.
Consume foods that are high in calcium.
Consume ten percent of total calories from saturated fat.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: The standard DASH diet limits sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams per day, which is about the amount of sodium in 1 teaspoon of table salt¹. A lower sodium version of DASH restricts sodium to 1,500 milligrams per day, which may lower blood pressure even further¹. Therefore, limiting sodium intake to 3,200 milligrams per day is not consistent with the DASH diet.
Choice B reason: The DASH diet recommends eating fewer refined carbohydrates and less sugar, as they can increase blood pressure and cholesterol levels². Instead, the DASH diet emphasizes eating more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which are rich in fiber, potassium, calcium, and magnesium².
Choice C reason: The DASH diet encourages consuming foods that are high in calcium, such as fat-free or low-fat dairy products, fish, beans, and nuts¹. Calcium is a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and supports bone health³. Studies have shown that increasing calcium intake can lower blood pressure in people with hypertension³.
Choice D reason: The DASH diet advises limiting foods that are high in saturated fat, such as fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, and tropical oils such as coconut, palm kernel, and palm oils¹. Saturated fat can raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. The DASH diet recommends consuming no more than six percent of total calories from saturated fat¹.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Abdominal distention is a possible complication of enteral nutrition, as it may indicate gas accumulation, constipation, or intolerance to the formula. However, it is not the greatest risk to the client, as it can be prevented or managed by adjusting the formula, rate, or volume of the feeding, or by administering medications or enemas.
Choice B reason: Fluid overload is a possible complication of enteral nutrition, as it may indicate excessive fluid intake, renal impairment, or heart failure. However, it is not the greatest risk to the client, as it can be prevented or managed by monitoring the fluid balance, electrolytes, and vital signs, or by administering diuretics or fluid restriction.
Choice C reason: Glycosuria is a possible complication of enteral nutrition, as it may indicate hyperglycemia, diabetes, or infection. However, it is not the greatest risk to the client, as it can be prevented or managed by monitoring the blood glucose, urine output, and signs of infection, or by administering insulin or antibiotics.
Choice D reason: Tube obstruction is the greatest risk to the client, as it may indicate clogging, kinking, or twisting of the tube, which can impair the delivery of the nutrition and medication, and cause aspiration, infection, or perforation. Tube obstruction can be prevented by flushing the tube with water before and after each feeding or medication, and by using a syringe or a pump to administer the formula. Tube obstruction can be managed by using warm water, carbonated beverages, or pancreatic enzymes to unclog the tube, or by replacing the tube if necessary.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Warming the formula to room temperature can help reduce the osmotic load and prevent diarrhea in clients receiving enteral nutrition. Cold formula can also cause abdominal cramping and discomfort.
Choice B reason: Increasing the rate of infusion can worsen diarrhea by increasing the osmotic load and the risk of bacterial overgrowth. The rate of infusion should be adjusted based on the client's tolerance and nutritional needs.
Choice C reason: Changing to a low-calorie formula is not indicated for diarrhea. Low-calorie formulas are usually high in osmolality and can cause more water to be drawn into the intestinal lumen, leading to diarrhea. A low-residue or isotonic formula may be more appropriate.
Choice D reason: Replacing the extension tubing every 48 hr is not enough to prevent diarrhea. The extension tubing should be replaced every 24 hr or with each new container of formula to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and infection.
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