A nurse is caring for a client who has a nasogastric tube and is receiving a continuous tube feeding with a high-protein formula. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent the tubing from clogging?

Choice A reason: Limiting high-calorie supplements to between meals is not a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can reduce the appetite and intake of regular meals, which are more nutritious and balanced. High-calorie supplements should be used as an addition to, not a replacement for, regular meals.

Choice B reason: Avoiding overeating during 'good' days is not a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can cause discomfort, nausea, or vomiting, which can worsen anorexia and affect the tolerance of radiation therapy. Eating should be based on hunger and satiety cues, not on good or bad days.

Choice C reason: Consuming nutrition-dense foods first is a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can ensure adequate intake of calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for healing and recovery. Nutrition-dense foods are those that provide high amounts of nutrients per serving, such as eggs, cheese, nuts, beans, and meat.

Choice D reason: Eating hot foods rather than cold foods is not a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can irritate the mouth and throat, which may be inflamed or sore due to radiation therapy. Cold foods are more soothing and refreshing for the mouth and throat, such as ice cream, yogurt, smoothies, and popsicles.

Choice A reason: Scrambled eggs are a good food choice for a client who has difficulty chewing due to ill-fitting dentures because they are soft, moist, and easy to swallow. Scrambled eggs also provide protein, iron, and vitamin B12 for the client.

Choice B reason: Tuna fish is not a good food choice for a client who has difficulty chewing due to ill-fitting dentures because it may contain bones, skin, or scales that can cause discomfort or injury to the gums or mouth. Tuna fish should be avoided or checked for bones and skin before consuming.

Choice C reason: Roast beef is not a good food choice for a client who has difficulty chewing due to ill-fitting dentures because it is tough, dry, and hard to chew. Roast beef can cause pain, fatigue, or choking for the client who has ill-fitting dentures. Roast beef should be avoided or cut into very small pieces and moistened with gravy or sauce before consuming.

Choice D reason: Apple slices are not a good food choice for a client who has difficulty chewing due to ill-fitting dentures because they are crisp, firm, and sticky. Apple slices can dislodge or damage the dentures or cause irritation or infection to the gums or mouth. Apple slices should be avoided or cooked until soft and mashed before consuming.

Choice E reason: Dried fruit is not a good food choice for a client who has difficulty chewing due to ill-fitting dentures because they are chewy, sticky, and sugary. Dried fruit can adhere to the dentures or teeth and cause dental caries or gum disease. Dried fruit should be avoided or soaked in water until soft and cut into small pieces before consuming.