Which group of foods should the nurse recommend for patients with a strong family history of colon and rectal cancers?

Choice A rationale
Heberden’s nodes are bony swellings that develop at the end joints (distal interphalangeal joints) of fingers, particularly the fingers closest to the nails. They are a characteristic feature of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease. Osteoarthritis causes the protective cartilage in the joints to wear down over time, leading to the development of these bony growths, which can be painful and limit joint movement. Therefore, discussing strategies for managing chronic pain with the patient is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take.
Choice B rationale
While checking the patient’s radial pulses and capillary refill time is a part of a comprehensive physical assessment, it is not directly related to the management of Heberden’s nodes or osteoarthritis.
Choice C rationale
Although Heberden’s nodes are a sign of osteoarthritis, they are not typically an emergency that requires immediate notification of the healthcare provider. They are a common finding in individuals with osteoarthritis and are usually managed with conservative measures such as pain management and physical therapy.
Choice D rationale
Reviewing the patient’s dietary intake of high-protein foods is not directly related to the management of Heberden’s nodes or osteoarthritis. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, it does not specifically address the pain and limited joint movement associated with Heberden’s nodes.

Choice A rationale
While the activity level of bowel sounds can provide information about the functioning of the gastrointestinal system, it is not the most important data to manage the patient’s pain from chronic pancreatitis.
Choice B rationale
The level and amount of physical activity can affect the patient’s pain level, but it is not the most crucial data for managing pain in chronic pancreatitis.
Choice C rationale
Eating patterns of dietary intake are the most important data to manage the patient’s pain. In chronic pancreatitis, certain foods can exacerbate the pain. Understanding the patient’s dietary habits can help in providing appropriate dietary modifications.
Choice D rationale
The color and consistency of feces can provide information about the patient’s digestive health, but it is not the most important data to manage the patient’s pain from chronic pancreatitis.