A client asks the nurse for help in selecting foods, as some are “good

A client asks the nurse for help in selecting foods, as some are “good” and others are “bad.” How should the nurse respond to the client?

1. “Eat a wide variety of foods to furnish adequate nutrients.”
2. “Avoid starchy foods.”
3. “Limit foods with high-fructose corn syrup.”
4. “Eat three meals a day to reduce calories.”
5. “Eat moderately to maintain correct body weight.”

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1, 5
Rationale 1: Nurses should not use a “good food, bad food” approach, but rather should realize that variations of intake are acceptable under different circumstances. The only “universally” accepted guidelines are to eat a wide variety of foods to furnish adequate nutrients.
Rationale 2: The nurse should not support the client’s belief about foods being either “good” or bad.”
Rationale 3: The nurse should not support the client’s belief about foods being either “good” or bad.”
Rationale 4: This might not be enough to sustain the client’s calorie needs.
Rationale 5: Nurses should not use a “good food, bad food” approach, but rather should realize that variations of intake are acceptable under different circumstances. The only “universally” accepted guidelines are to eat moderately to maintain correct body weight.