A healthcare provider inserts a subclavian central venous catheter (CVC) and prescribes total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for infusion via the line. While waiting for the pharmacy to deliver the TPN, which action should the nurse take?

Choice A reason:

Cheese is high in saturated fats and cholesterol, which can significantly impact lipid levels. For a client with elevated total cholesterol and LDL levels, it is crucial to avoid foods that can exacerbate these conditions. Saturated fats found in cheese can increase LDL cholesterol, contributing to the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, avoiding cheese can help manage and reduce these lipid levels, promoting better heart health.

Choice B reason:

Eggs, particularly egg yolks, contain cholesterol, but recent studies suggest that dietary cholesterol has a smaller impact on blood cholesterol levels than previously thought. While moderation is key, eggs are not the primary concern compared to foods high in saturated fats like cheese. Therefore, while eggs should be consumed in moderation, they are not as critical to avoid as cheese for managing high cholesterol levels.

Choice C reason:

Nuts contain healthy fats, including unsaturated fats, which can actually help improve lipid profiles by lowering LDL cholesterol and raising HDL cholesterol. They are also a good source of protein and other nutrients. Therefore, nuts are not only safe but beneficial for someone managing their cholesterol levels, making them a good dietary choice.

Choice D reason:

Shellfish contain cholesterol, but like eggs, they have less impact on blood cholesterol levels compared to saturated fats. Additionally, shellfish are low in saturated fats and can be part of a heart-healthy diet when consumed in moderation. The primary dietary focus should be on reducing saturated fat intake, making shellfish less of a concern compared to cheese.

Choice C reason:

Having the client compare the fat content of each snack food is important for managing a low-fat diet. While fruits are generally low in fat, some, like avocados, contain higher levels of healthy fats. Educating the client on the fat content of different foods helps them make informed choices that align with their dietary goals. This approach empowers the client to understand their diet better and make adjustments as needed to manage their heart disease effectively.

Choice A reason:

Eliminating fruits that have a red skin from the diet is not necessary for managing a low-fat diet. The color of the fruit’s skin does not impact its fat content. This recommendation does not address the primary concern of managing fat intake.

Choice B reason:

Telling the client to eliminate in-between meal snacks is not the best approach. Healthy snacks can help maintain energy levels and prevent overeating during main meals. The focus should be on choosing low-fat snacks rather than eliminating them entirely.

Choice D reason:

Instructing the client to eat raw fruit rather than dried fruits can be beneficial as dried fruits often contain added sugars and higher calorie content. However, this recommendation does not directly address the fat content of the snacks. The primary focus should be on educating the client about the fat content of their food choices.