A nurse is teaching a group of healthy older adult clients about dietary needs. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
"Older adults should decrease their vitamin D intake."
"Older adults should decrease their calorie intake."
"Older adults should decrease their protein intake."
"Older adults should decrease their fiber intake."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice B reason: Older adults should decrease their calorie intake as their metabolic rate and physical activity tend to decline with age. Excess calories can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers. Older adults should aim for a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs without exceeding their energy requirements.
Choice A reason: Older adults should not decrease their vitamin D intake, as vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function. Older adults are at risk of vitamin D deficiency due to reduced sun exposure, decreased skin synthesis, and impaired absorption. Vitamin D deficiency can cause osteoporosis, fractures, muscle weakness, and infections. Older adults should consume adequate amounts of vitamin D from fortified foods, supplements, or sun exposure.
Choice C reason: Older adults should not decrease their protein intake, as protein is important for maintaining muscle mass, strength, and function. Older adults are prone to sarcopenia, which is the loss of muscle mass and quality due to aging. Sarcopenia can impair mobility, balance, and independence. Older adults should consume enough protein from animal or plant sources to prevent or delay sarcopenia.
Choice D reason: Older adults should not decrease their fiber intake, as fiber is beneficial for digestive health and blood glucose control. Older adults often suffer from constipation, diverticular disease, and diabetes, which can be alleviated by increasing fiber intake. Fiber can also lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and some cancers. Older adults should consume at least 25 grams of fiber per day from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Changing the feeding to a continuous infusion may not improve the constipation, as it does not address the fluid deficit or the fiber content of the formula. Continuous infusion may also increase the risk of aspiration, diarrhea, and bacterial contamination.
Choice B reason: Increasing the amount of free water can help prevent or treat constipation by hydrating the stool and facilitating its passage. The client's fluid intake and output indicate a fluid deficit, which can contribute to constipation. The recommended fluid intake for adults is 30 to 35 mL/kg/day.
Choice C reason: Decreasing the infusion rate of feeding may worsen the constipation, as it reduces the caloric and fluid intake of the client. The infusion rate should be based on the client's nutritional needs and tolerance.
Choice D reason: Requesting a prescription for a diuretic is not appropriate, as it would further dehydrate the client and aggravate the constipation. Diuretics are indicated for clients with fluid overload, not fluid deficit.
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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