A client is diagnosed as having a negative nitrogen balance. What shou

A client is diagnosed as having a negative nitrogen balance. What should the nurse instruct the client about this finding?

1. Discuss ways to reduce protein in the diet.
2. Review how to limit carbohydrates in the diet.
3. Discuss ways to increase protein in the diet.
4. Analyze reasons why fats should be limited in the diet.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: This would further decrease the client’s protein stores, worsening the nitrogen balance.
Rationale 2: Nitrogen balance does not measure carbohydrate intake in the diet.
Rationale 3: Nitrogen balance means the amounts of protein anabolism and protein catabolism are equal. In negative nitrogen balance, there is an excessive amount of protein catabolism or a decrease in the amount of protein ingested in the diet.
Rationale 4: Fat intake does not influence nitrogen balance.