A nurse is reinforcing teaching about measures to control odor with a client who has a new colostomy.
Which of the following foods should the nurse recommend the client include in their diet?

Choice A rationale

Potassium supplementation is irrelevant in hypernatremia management unless hypokalemia coexists. Hypernatremia results from increased sodium or water deficit, requiring strategies to restore water balance. Administering potassium can lead to hyperkalemia if levels exceed the normal range of 3.5–5.0 mEq/L, worsening the client’s condition.

Choice B rationale

Sodium restriction prevents exacerbation of hypernatremia, aiding in reducing serum sodium levels. Management focuses on reducing sodium intake and gradual fluid replacement. Normal serum sodium levels range between 135–145 mEq/L, and dietary modification plays a key role in correction.

Choice C rationale

Fluid restriction is contraindicated, as it can worsen the water deficit that contributes to hypernatremia. Treatment aims to address free water deficit through oral or intravenous fluids, ensuring gradual correction to avoid complications like cerebral edema.

Choice D rationale

Laxatives are unnecessary in hypernatremia unless constipation is present. Instead, therapeutic efforts should focus on correcting the underlying imbalance. Misuse of laxatives can lead to dehydration, further increasing serum sodium levels.

Choice A rationale

Current medication prescriptions are essential for ensuring continuity of care. Accurate documentation prevents medication errors and allows the receiving unit to administer the right medications at the correct times and dosages. It ensures the client’s therapeutic regimen continues uninterrupted and facilitates the management of conditions during the transfer process.

Choice B rationale

The primary health problem outlines the central issue requiring intensive care. This information is vital for prioritizing interventions and forming a focused care plan. It ensures the receiving team understands the client’s critical health needs and can provide the appropriate monitoring and treatment promptly.

Choice C rationale

Scheduled times for dressing changes are not typically included in transfer documentation because they represent non-urgent routine tasks. Prioritization is given to critical information like the client’s current condition and medical orders to ensure safety during the transition to the intensive care unit.

Choice D rationale

The number of family members who have visited is irrelevant to the clinical transfer process. Documentation should focus solely on medical and therapeutic information critical to the client’s ongoing care and safety, ensuring efficient communication between healthcare providers.

Choice E rationale

Admission vital signs from a week ago do not reflect the client’s current condition and are not useful for guiding care. Transfer documentation should include recent and relevant clinical data to assist the receiving team in assessing and managing the client’s immediate needs.