A nurse is teaching a patient about the importance of balancing proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in the diet.
The nurse identifies that the teaching about carbohydrates is understood when the patient states that carbohydrates are known for providing which of the following?

Choice A rationale

While saturated fats are part of the body's metabolic processes, their primary negative impact at elevated levels isn't directly interfering with the overall metabolic pathways in a disruptive manner. The issue lies more specifically with their influence on lipid profiles rather than a broad metabolic dysfunction.

Choice B rationale

Saturated fats, primarily found in animal products, have been shown to increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood. Elevated LDL cholesterol is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing them and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Choice C rationale

Hydrogenation is a process used to solidify unsaturated fats, creating trans fats, which are even more detrimental to cholesterol levels than saturated fats. Saturated fats themselves are naturally solid at room temperature and do not inherently need to be hydrogenated to achieve this state.

Choice D rationale

Saturated fats do not typically block the absorption of essential nutrients. The digestive system is designed to absorb a variety of fats, including saturated fats, along with other nutrients. The primary concern with high intake of saturated fats is their negative impact on blood lipid levels.

Choice A rationale

Palpating the tender area first can cause increased pain and muscle guarding, potentially interfering with the subsequent auscultation of bowel sounds. It is important to auscultate before palpation to avoid altering the natural bowel sounds.

Choice B rationale

Examining the tender area last minimizes the client's discomfort and reduces the likelihood of muscle guarding affecting the assessment of other abdominal areas. This systematic approach allows for a more accurate evaluation of non-tender regions before focusing on the area of complaint.

Choice C rationale

Examining the tender area first will likely cause the patient increased discomfort, leading to muscle guarding that can make it difficult to accurately assess other areas of the abdomen. This approach can also make the patient apprehensive and less cooperative for the remainder of the examination.

Choice D rationale

Avoiding palpation of the tender area altogether would result in an incomplete assessment. Palpation is crucial for evaluating tenderness, masses, and organomegaly in the area of the patient's pain. Modifying the order of assessment is preferred over complete avoidance.