The nurse is writing a care plan for a client who was diagnosed with Crohn's disease a year ago and is now hospitalized with a fourth acute exacerbation. Which client problem should receive the highest priority?

C. Crohn's disease exacerbation often leads to malnutrition due to decreased oral intake, malabsorption, and increased nutrient losses through diarrhea. Addressing imbalanced nutrition is crucial to replenish depleted nutrient stores, support healing, and prevent further complications.
A. While fluid overload can be a concern in certain situations, such as when administering intravenous fluids or in clients with renal impairment, it is not typically a primary concern in clients hospitalized with Crohn's disease exacerbation. Crohn's disease is more commonly associated with dehydration due to diarrhea and malabsorption rather than fluid overload.
B. In the acute phase of Crohn's disease exacerbation, addressing immediate physiological needs and stabilizing the client's condition typically take precedence over psychosocial concerns.
D. Social isolation can be a concern for clients with chronic illnesses, including Crohn's disease, as it may impact their quality of life and emotional well-being. However, in the acute phase of exacerbation, addressing physiological needs and stabilizing the client's condition typically takes precedence over psychosocial concerns such as social isolation.

B. Increase fiber in the diet: This is the correct option. Increasing dietary fiber intake is one of the most important interventions to prevent diverticular disease and reduce the risk of diverticulitis. Adequate fiber intake promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation, which can help reduce pressure in the colon and minimize the formation of diverticula.
A. Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which may actually help prevent diverticular disease. Therefore, while avoiding nuts and seeds may be advised during an acute diverticulitis flare-up to reduce irritation to the colon, it is not the most important long-term preventive intervention.
C. While stress management techniques may contribute to overall health and well-being, they are not the most important intervention specifically for preventing diverticular disease.
D. While physical activity and exercise are important for overall health and may help improve bowel function, there is limited evidence to suggest that strengthening abdominal muscles alone can prevent diverticular disease.