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. History of diabetes mellitus: Diabetes causes impaired blood flow and neuropathy, which delay wound healing by reducing oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues and increasing infection risk.

B. Prealbumin level: A low prealbumin level reflects inadequate protein stores, which are critical for cellular repair, immune function, and the synthesis of collagen during wound healing.

C. Cholesterol level: While elevated cholesterol increases cardiovascular risk, it does not directly affect the biochemical processes involved in wound healing or tissue repair.

D. Mini Nutritional Assessment screening tool score: A low score indicates poor nutritional status, often linked with deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and protein that are necessary for effective tissue repair and immune response.

E. History of malnutrition: Malnutrition results in diminished energy reserves and nutrient deficiencies, both of which weaken the body's capacity to regenerate tissue and fight infections, prolonging wound healing time.

F. History of hyperlipidemia: Hyperlipidemia contributes to atherosclerosis but is not directly associated with impaired wound healing or immune function necessary for tissue recovery.

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.