The practical nurse (PN) knows that AIDS is a viral infection that compromises the effectiveness of the immune system. Which component of the immune system is characteristically affected?

Choice A reason: Red meats are typically high in sodium, especially if they are processed or cured. Encouraging the consumption of red meats would not be appropriate for a client with low sodium levels.
Choice B reason: Salted crackers are high in sodium and should be avoided for a client with low sodium levels. Consuming salted crackers would further decrease the sodium level, which is not desirable in this case.
Choice C reason: Fresh fruits are naturally low in sodium and are a good choice for a client with low sodium levels. They provide essential vitamins and nutrients without adding excess sodium to the diet.
Choice D reason: Green vegetables are also low in sodium and are a healthy option for a client with low sodium levels. However, fresh fruits are often more palatable and easier to incorporate into the diet, making them a better choice for encouraging the client to eat.

Choice A reason: Commending the client for ensuring an adequate source of vitamin C in the diet is not the best response. While vitamin C is important for overall health, it does not directly impact bone density. The client's focus on orange juice may stem from a misunderstanding of the nutrients that are critical for bone health, such as calcium and vitamin D. A better approach would be to address the specific nutrients that support bone density and clarify any misconceptions.
Choice B reason: Advising the client of the need to remain NPO (nothing by mouth) until the test is completed is not necessary for a bone density test. Bone density tests, such as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, do not require the client to fast beforehand. Providing this advice would be incorrect and could cause unnecessary concern or confusion for the client.
Choice C reason: Determining if the client drinks orange juice that has been fortified with calcium is a helpful step, but it does not address the immediate need to correct the client's misunderstanding about the purpose of the bone density test. While calcium-fortified orange juice can be beneficial for bone health, the priority should be to ensure the client has accurate information about the test they are undergoing.
Choice D reason: Correcting the client's misunderstanding of the purpose of bone density testing is the most appropriate response. The primary goal of a bone density test is to measure the density of the bones and assess the risk of fractures, not to diagnose or confirm the presence of osteoporosis. By providing clear and accurate information about the test, the practical nurse can help the client understand its purpose and alleviate any misconceptions. This response also opens the door for further education on managing osteoporosis and ensuring the client is receiving the necessary nutrients for bone health.