A nurse is reinforcing teaching about nutritional choices with a client who is postoperative following bariatric surgery.
To reduce the client's risk of dumping syndrome, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale

Ambulation can stimulate peristalsis and promote bowel movements. However, ambulation is not the priority when the client reports severe abdominal pain rated 7/10 and vomiting. These symptoms could indicate a potential obstruction or other complications, and further evaluation is essential before initiating physical activity to avoid exacerbating the condition.

Choice B rationale

Encouraging oral intake is important to prevent dehydration, particularly if the client has been vomiting. However, this is not the first intervention, as assessing the underlying cause of the symptoms takes precedence. Increasing oral intake without addressing potential gastrointestinal obstruction may worsen the client's condition.

Choice C rationale

Administering antiemetics can provide symptom relief for nausea and vomiting. However, this intervention addresses a symptom rather than identifying the underlying cause of the client's abdominal pain and vomiting. Further evaluation by a provider is necessary before symptomatic management.

Choice D rationale

Notifying the provider allows for further evaluation and timely diagnosis of the cause of the abdominal pain and vomiting, which could indicate serious conditions like bowel obstruction or ischemia. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to determine the appropriate intervention and ensure the client's safety.

Choice A rationale

Instructing the client to tilt their head back increases the risk of aspiration by misaligning the airway and esophagus. Clients with dysphagia require strategies that minimize the risk of aspiration and promote safe swallowing, such as a neutral head position or chin tuck.

Choice B rationale

Scheduling physical therapy directly before meals is inappropriate as it may cause fatigue, reducing the client’s ability to eat safely. Proper scheduling ensures clients have sufficient energy to focus on eating, essential for minimizing aspiration risks in those with dysphagia.

Choice C rationale

Providing oral care before meals reduces the bacterial load in the oral cavity, lowering the risk of aspiration pneumonia if food or liquids are accidentally aspirated. Maintaining good oral hygiene is a key preventive measure for complications related to dysphagia.

Choice D rationale

Encouraging the use of a straw is contraindicated as it can increase the risk of aspiration. Using a straw can direct liquids forcefully to the throat, overwhelming the client’s ability to control swallowing, which is a safety concern for individuals with dysphagia.