A home health nurse is reinforcing teaching about dietary needs with the child of a client. They state, "I don't know what to do because they're not eating." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A Reason:

Chicken is incorrect. Chicken is a type of poultry and is a meat product. Lacto-vegetarians do not consume meat, including poultry, as part of their dietary choices.

Choice B Reason:

Clam chowder is incorrect. Clam chowder is a soup typically made with clams and often contains ingredients like broth or cream, which may not align with a lacto-vegetarian diet. It includes seafood, which is excluded in lacto-vegetarian dietary practices.

Choice C Reason:

Tuna fish is incorrect. Tuna fish is a type of seafood and is not consumed in lacto-vegetarian diets. Lacto-vegetarians exclude all types of fish and seafood from their diet and primarily consume dairy products along with plant-based foods.

Given that the client follows a lacto-vegetarian diet, the most appropriate food choice from the options provided would be:

Choice D is Reason:

Cheese is correct. A lacto-vegetarian diet includes dairy products but excludes meat and seafood. Cheese, being a dairy product, aligns with the lacto-vegetarian dietary pattern as it is derived from milk and fits within the dietary preferences of this individual.

Choice A Reason:

Turn on loud music in client care areas is incorrect. This action might increase stress rather than reduce it. Loud noises or music can be distressing for clients, especially in a healthcare setting where rest and recovery are crucial. It's generally better to maintain a calm and quiet environment.

Choice B Reason:

Assign different nurses to provide care for clients each day is incorrect. Continuity of care is often beneficial for clients, as it fosters trust and familiarity. Having different nurses daily might disrupt this continuity and potentially increase stress for clients who prefer consistent caregivers.

Choice C Reason:

While offering some choices can empower clients and reduce stress, too many choices might overwhelm them, particularly in an acute care setting. The key is to provide a balance of autonomy while not overwhelming the client.

Choice D Reason:

Limiting the number of visitors can help create a quieter, more controlled environment, reducing overstimulation and stress for clients. This can be particularly important in an acute care setting where rest and a calm environment are crucial for recovery.