The hospice nurse is teaching the family of a client receiving palliative care at home how to provide care. Which instruction should the nurse provide?

Choice A reason: Applying sequential compression stockings when in bed is a recommended postoperative intervention for bariatric surgery patients. It helps prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by promoting venous return and reducing venous stasis, which is particularly important in patients with obesity due to their increased risk for DVT.
Choice B reason: Maintaining strict bedrest for 12 hours after surgery is not typically recommended as it can increase the risk of complications such as DVT and pulmonary embolism. Early mobilization is generally encouraged to promote circulation and respiratory function.
Choice C reason: Providing chilled beverages is not a specific nursing intervention indicated in the immediate postoperative period for bariatric surgery patients. Fluid intake should be carefully monitored and regulated, but the temperature of the beverages is not a primary concern.
Choice D reason: Changing position frequently is an important postoperative intervention to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and to promote lung expansion, especially in patients with obesity who are at higher risk for these issues.
Choice E reason: Encouraging coughing and deep breathing is essential after bariatric surgery to help clear the airways, prevent atelectasis, and improve oxygenation. This is particularly important for this patient who has a history of sleep apnea and reported diminished breath sounds postoperatively.
Choice F reason: Observing for signs and symptoms of dumping syndrome is relevant for bariatric surgery patients, as this syndrome can occur when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine. However, this is more of a long-term concern rather than an immediate postoperative intervention.
Choice G reason: Keeping the client NPO (nothing by mouth) is a common immediate postoperative order, but as the patient progresses, they will be started on a liquid diet and advanced as tolerated. Therefore, it is not a nursing intervention that would be indicated indefinitely.
Choice H reason: Maintaining the head at a 45-degree angle can help improve respiratory function by reducing pressure on the diaphragm, which is especially beneficial for patients with obesity and a history of sleep apnea, as in this case.

Choice A Reason: Selecting only food items with no fat is not recommended because some fats, particularly unsaturated fats, are beneficial for health and should be included in a balanced diet.
Choice B Reason: Taking a cinnamon supplement may be beneficial as some studies suggest that cinnamon can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Choice C Reason: Minimizing the number of refined grains in the diet is advised because refined grains can have a negative impact on blood sugar control and may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Choice D Reason: Eliminating sugary beverages and juices from the diet is beneficial as these can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Choice E Reason: Doubling the usual amount of protein in the diet is not necessary and could lead to an excessive intake of calories. Protein should be consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Choice F Reason: Increasing the amount of dietary fiber is recommended because fiber can help manage blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.