A client with GERD asks the nurse about the potential benefits of elevating the head of the bed. What should the nurse explain?

A) Incorrect. Avoiding hand hygiene is not an effective way to prevent gastroenteritis; in fact, it increases the risk of infection.

B) Correct. Proper hand hygiene, including washing hands frequently, especially before handling food, is a key measure in preventing the spread of gastroenteritis.

C) Incorrect. Consuming undercooked meats and unpasteurized dairy products can actually increase the risk of gastroenteritis due to potential bacterial contamination.

D) Incorrect. Sharing personal items can increase the risk of spreading gastroenteritis, as the virus or bacteria can be easily transmitted through shared items.

A) Incorrect. Spicy and greasy foods can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms and should be avoided during the recovery phase of gastroenteritis.

B) Correct. Dairy products can be hard to digest for some individuals with gastroenteritis, so it's recommended to avoid them until symptoms completely resolve.

C) Incorrect. While fiber is important for a balanced diet, increasing fiber intake may exacerbate symptoms in the acute phase of gastroenteritis.

D) Incorrect. Large amounts of fatty foods can be difficult to digest and may worsen gastrointestinal symptoms, so they should be avoided during recovery.