In creating a plan of care to meet the nutritional needs of the ...

[acc299]

In creating a plan of care to meet the nutritional needs of the patient, the nurse needs to explore the patient's feelings about weight and food. The nurse must do this to
 
  a. Determine which category of plan to use.
  b. Set realistic goals for the patient.
  c. Mutually plan goals with patient and team.
  d. Prevent the need for a dietitian consult.

Question 2

The patient is elderly and has been diagnosed with Imbalanced nutrition: less than body require-ments. Her treatment regimen should include having the nurse
 
  a. Encourage weight gain as rapidly as possi-ble.
  b. Encourage large meals three times a day.
  c. Decrease fluid intake to prevent feeling full.
  d. Encourage fiber intake.

[Tonny]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Mutually planned goals negotiated by patient, registered dietitian, and nurse ensure success. In-dividualized planning cannot be overemphasized. Preplanned and categorical care plans are not effective unless they are individualized to meet patient needs. It is important to explore patients' feelings about weight and food to help them set realistic and achievable goals. The nurse does not set goals for the patient. The plan should reflect the combined effort of patient, nurse, and dietitian, so a dietitian consult is required.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Increasing fiber intake deters constipation and enhances appetite. Weight gain should be slow and progressive. Frequent small meals should be encouraged to increase dietary intake and to help offset anorexia. Older adults need eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid per day from beverage and food sources.