A nurse is caring for a client who is obese and is prescribed a calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day. The nurse should expect the client to have which of the following rates of weight loss?

Choice A reason: Flossing dentures is not necessary, as dentures do not have spaces between the teeth where plaque and food particles can accumulate. Flossing dentures may damage the denture material or cause it to loosen.

Choice B reason: Dentures should be cleaned with a soft material to prevent scratches or damage. A washcloth is gentle enough to clean the denture surfaces without causing harm.

Choice C reason: Wiping dentures before storing them in a dry container at night is not advisable, as it may cause the dentures to crack or warp. Dentures should be soaked in water or a denture cleanser solution overnight to keep them moist and prevent them from losing their shape.

Choice D reason: Wrapping gloved fingers with gauze to remove dentures is not a standard practice. Dentures should be removed carefully by rocking them slightly to break the seal with the gums. Using gauze is unnecessary and may not be as effective or safe for the dentures or the oral tissues.

Choice D reason: A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day can result in a weight loss of about 0.45 kg (1 lb) per week, which is a safe and realistic goal for most clients. A pound of fat contains about 3,500 calories, so reducing the daily intake by 500 calories can create a deficit of 3,500 calories per week.

Choice A reason: A weight loss of 0.45 kg (1 lb) per day is too rapid and unhealthy, as it can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, muscle loss, and metabolic slowdown. It can also be unsustainable and lead to weight regain. A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day cannot achieve such a drastic weight loss.

Choice B reason: A weight loss of 0.23 kg (0.5 lb) per day is also too rapid and unhealthy, for the same reasons as choice A. A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day cannot achieve such a drastic weight loss.

Choice C reason: A weight loss of 0.23 kg (0.5 lb) per week is too slow and unlikely, as it would require a calorie reduction of only 250 fewer calories per day. This is not enough to create a significant deficit and stimulate weight loss. A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day can result in a faster weight loss.