A nurse is teaching about implementing a heart-healthy diet to a client who has coronary artery disease. Which of the following foods should the nurse recommend to the client?

An appropriate intervention for a nurse caring for a client with stomatitis following radiation therapy would be to serve foods without sauces or gravies. Stomatitis is the inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, which can cause pain and discomfort. Foods with sauces or gravies can irritate the affected areas and exacerbate the symptoms. Serving plain or bland foods can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

Instructing the client to drink liquids without a straw is not specifically related to stomatitis. The use of a straw may not have a direct impact on the condition. However, it is generally recommended to avoid using a straw when there are mouth sores or ulcers to prevent further irritation.

Serving foods while still at a hot temperature is not appropriate for a client with stomatitis. Hot foods can cause additional discomfort and may further irritate the inflamed tissues. It is advisable to serve foods at a cooler or lukewarm temperature to provide relief.

Offering mouth rinses with normal saline and water is not specifically related to stomatitis following radiation therapy. While mouth rinses can be helpful in maintaining oral hygiene and soothing oral tissues, the choice of rinse solution may vary depending on the client's condition and healthcare provider's recommendations. In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe a specific mouth rinse or provide instructions on the appropriate solution to use.

In teaching about dietary guidelines to promote cardiovascular health, the nurse should include the recommendation to increase the intake of whole grains. Whole grains, such as whole wheat, brown rice, oats, and quinoa, are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that are beneficial for cardiovascular health. They can help lower cholesterol levels, improve blood sugar control, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

The other choices are incorrect:

Increasing the intake of refined carbohydrates is not a recommended recommendation for promoting cardiovascular health. Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, white rice, and sugary snacks, have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease. They are often low in fiber and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to poor cardiovascular health outcomes.

Decreasing the intake of potassium is also not a recommended recommendation. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in maintaining heart health and blood pressure regulation. Adequate intake of potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, avocados, spinach, and sweet potatoes, can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Decreasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids is incorrect as well. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, have been shown to have numerous cardiovascular benefits. They can help reduce inflammation, lower triglyceride levels, improve heart rhythm, and decrease the risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is important to include omega-3 fatty acids in the diet for optimal cardiovascular health.