A nurse is educating the parent of a school-age child about the importance of maintaining water intake to prevent dehydration. Which of the following food choices should the nurse recommend as containing the greatest percentage of water?

The correct answer is: b. Offer the client frozen bananas as a snack.

Choice A: Discourage the use of a straw

Discouraging the use of a straw is not the best intervention for a client with stomatitis following radiation therapy. While using a straw might cause some discomfort, it is not a primary concern. The focus should be on providing soothing and non-irritating foods.

Choice B: Offer the client frozen bananas as a snack

Offering the client frozen bananas as a snack is an appropriate intervention. Frozen bananas can provide a soothing effect on the inflamed oral tissues and are less likely to cause irritation compared to other foods. They are also nutritious and easy to consume, making them a suitable option for clients with stomatitis.

Choice C: Serve the client hot meals

Serving hot meals is not recommended for clients with stomatitis. Hot foods can exacerbate the discomfort and irritation in the mouth, making it more painful for the client to eat. It is better to serve foods at a moderate or cool temperature to avoid further irritation.

Choice D: Avoid serving sauces or gravies

Avoiding sauces or gravies is not the best intervention for a client with stomatitis. While some sauces or gravies might be irritating, others can be soothing and help make the food easier to swallow. The key is to choose mild and non-spicy options that do not irritate the oral tissues.

Choice C reason: Flushing the tubing with water after each feeding is important to prevent clogging, maintain patency, and clear any residual formula from the tube. It also helps to prevent bacterial growth and infection.

Choice A reason: Wearing sterile gloves during a feeding is not necessary, as enteral feedings are not considered sterile procedures. Clean gloves are sufficient to prevent contamination and protect the nurse and the client.

Choice B reason: Chilling the feeding prior to administering is not recommended, as cold formula can cause abdominal cramping, discomfort, and diarrhea. The formula should be at room temperature or slightly warmed before giving it to the client.

Choice D reason: Positioning the client upright prior to a feeding is correct, but it is not enough. The client should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after the feeding as well, to prevent aspiration, reflux, and nausea.