A nurse is caring for a client who has terminal cancer. The client tells the nurse, "I feel worn out and don't have the energy to fight this disease. Am I dying?" Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. Take a calcium supplement: Calcium supplements can contribute to constipation by decreasing bowel motility and hardening stools. Recommending calcium without addressing constipation can worsen symptoms.

B. Consume probiotic sources: Probiotics help balance gut flora and improve bowel motility, which can alleviate constipation. Including probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or supplements supports healthier digestion.

C. Use a laxative every day: Daily use of laxatives can lead to dependency and decreased bowel function over time. Laxatives should be used cautiously and not as a first-line or chronic treatment.

D. Bake with white flour: White flour is low in fiber and can contribute to constipation. Whole-grain alternatives are recommended to increase fiber intake and improve bowel regularity.

A. Administer an antibiotic: There is no indication of infection; WBC count is normal, and the client is afebrile. The reported symptoms relate to lifestyle and substance use rather than a bacterial illness, making antibiotics unnecessary.

B. Limit alcohol intake to 2 drinks per day: The client uses 4–5 beers nightly to sleep, indicating alcohol misuse that can exacerbate hypertension and negatively impact sleep quality. Limiting intake supports cardiovascular and liver health, and aligns with public health recommendations.

C. Limit foods high in potassium: The client’s potassium level is within the normal range (3.7 mEq/L), and there is no evidence of kidney dysfunction or hyperkalemia. Restricting potassium is unwarranted and could risk deficiency.

D. Administer a diuretic: The client has elevated blood pressure (162/90 mm Hg), which may require pharmacologic intervention. Diuretics are a common first-line treatment for hypertension as they reduce fluid overload and vascular resistance.

E. Keep daily fat intake to less than 35%: The client’s LDL (210 mg/dL) and total cholesterol (248 mg/dL) levels are significantly elevated. Reducing total fat intake, particularly saturated fats, is essential for lowering cholesterol and reducing cardiovascular risk.

F. Place on 2,300 mg sodium diet: A sodium-restricted diet is standard for managing hypertension. The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium to help control blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular complications.