A nurse is reinforcing teaching about a low-cholesterol diet with a client who had a myocardial infarction. Which of the following meal selections by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason: This is a correct statement, because the stool consistency depends on the location of the colostomy. A sigmoid colostomy is located in the lower part of the colon, where most of the water is absorbed, so the stool will be formed.

Choice B reason: This is a correct statement, because the stoma size will decrease as the swelling subsides and the wound heals. The stoma will reach its final size in about 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.

Choice C reason: This is a correct statement, because the colostomy function will resume gradually after surgery, depending on the bowel motility and the presence of gas or stool. The colostomy will usually start to function 2 to 6 days after surgery.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect statement, because the diet does not have to change to a soft diet after surgery. The client can resume a normal diet as tolerated, unless there are specific dietary restrictions or recommendations from the provider. A soft diet may be recommended only for the first few days after surgery, to avoid bowel obstruction or irritation.

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect statement, because the client should avoid any body piercings, tattoos, or other procedures that can cause skin or mucosal trauma and increase the risk of bacterial infection and endocarditis. The client should also seek medical attention if they have a fever or other signs of infection.

Choice B reason: This is a correct statement, because the client should notify their doctor before they have dental procedures, such as cleaning, filling, or extraction, that can cause bleeding and introduce bacteria into the bloodstream. The client may need prophylactic antibiotics to prevent endocarditis.

Choice C reason: This is a partially correct statement, because the client should floss their teeth twice a day as a part of their oral care, but this is not enough to prevent recurrence of endocarditis. The client should also brush their teeth with a soft toothbrush after each meal, use an antiseptic mouthwash, and visit their dentist regularly.

Choice D reason: This is an unnecessary statement, because the client does not need to wear a mask when they go out in public, unless they have a respiratory infection or are exposed to someone who has one. Endocarditis is not transmitted by airborne or droplet routes, but by direct contact with the infected heart valves or blood.