The nurse is caring for a client who experiences frequent bouts of dia

The nurse is caring for a client who experiences frequent bouts of diarrhea. What should the nurse instruct the client to do?

1. Change the daily routine.
2. Decrease fluid consumption.
3. Increase fiber in the diet.
4. Note the precipitating event.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Changing one’s daily routine can cause or contribute to diarrhea.
Rationale 2: Decreasing fluid consumption may cause constipation. If a client has diarrhea and still decreases fluid intake, this can contribute to dehydration.
Rationale 3: Increasing fiber in the diet when one already has diarrhea would just make matters worse.
Rationale 4: Psychological stress such as anxiety, medications, food allergies, and certain diseases can cause diarrhea. Noting the event can help identify and stop the cause.