A nurse is caring for a client who has malnutrition. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Choice A reason: Recommending a total fat intake of 12 g each day is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take because it is too low for most adults. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA. for fat is 20 to 35% of total calories per day, which translates to about 44 to 78 g of fat per day for an average adult who consumes 2,000 calories per day.

Choice B reason: Referring the client to a weight-loss support group is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take because the client does not need to lose weight. A body mass index (BMI) of 22 is within the normal range, which is 18.5 to 24.9. A weight-loss support group is more suitable for clients who have a BMI of 25 or higher, which indicates overweight or obesity.

Choice C reason: Advising the client to add 500 calories per day to the diet is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take because it may lead to weight gain. A client who has a BMI of 22 does not need to increase their caloric intake unless they have other medical conditions or nutritional needs that require more calories. Adding 500 calories per day to the diet can result in gaining about one pound per week, which can increase the risk of obesity and its complications.

Choice D reason: Encouraging the client to continue current daily caloric intake is an appropriate action for the nurse to take because it can help maintain a healthy weight. A client who has a BMI of 22 has a balanced energy intake and expenditure, which means that they consume enough calories to meet their metabolic needs and physical activity level. Continuing current daily caloric intake can prevent weight loss or gain and promote health and wellness.

Choice A reason: Baked sweet potato is a good source of iron, which is a mineral that helps make hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Iron deficiency can cause anemia, weakness, fatigue, and pale skin.

Choice B reason: Cauliflower is not a good source of iron, but it is a good source of vitamin C, which can help increase iron absorption from plant sources. Cauliflower is also a good source of fiber, folate, and antioxidants.

Choice C reason: Egg white omelet is not a good source of iron, but it is a good source of protein, which can help with tissue repair and growth. Egg white omelet is also low in fat and cholesterol.

Choice D reason: Brown rice is not a good source of iron, but it is a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide energy and prevent protein breakdown. Brown rice is also a good source of fiber, B vitamins, and magnesium.