A nurse is providing dietary advice to a patient at risk for hypokalemia.
Which food should the nurse recommend as a good source of potassium?

Choice A rationale:

Hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature, is not typically a symptom of diarrhea. While it’s possible for a person with severe diarrhea to experience chills or feel cold, hypothermia is not a direct result of diarrhea.

Choice B rationale:

A rigid abdomen is often a sign of a serious condition like peritonitis (inflammation of the peritoneum, the tissue that lines the inner wall of the abdomen), but it is not typically associated with diarrhea.

Choice C rationale:

Dehydration is a common complication of diarrhea. When a person has diarrhea, they can lose a lot of fluid and electrolytes quickly, leading to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration can include thirst, less frequent urination, dark-colored urine, fatigue, dizziness, and confusion.

Choice D rationale:

Decreased bowel sounds are not typically associated with diarrhea. In fact, bowel sounds may actually increase in some cases of diarrhea due to increased gut motility.

Choice A rationale:

Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables. Just 1 cup (190 grams) of frozen spinach packs 12% of the DV for potassium. It’s also loaded with other nutrients. The same serving of frozen spinach contains 127% of the DV for vitamin A, 857% for vitamin K, 58% for folate, and 37% for magnesium.

Choice B rationale:

Potatoes are a staple food and are high in potassium. They are a versatile and filling food that can be included in a variety of dishes. Potatoes are also a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Choice C rationale:

Bananas are known as potassium-rich foods. A medium banana contains around 9% of the DV for this mineral. Most people consider it the go-to food to increase their potassium intake. However, bananas are not the only good source of potassium.

Choice D rationale:

Apples are a healthy choice and provide some potassium, but they are not as high in potassium as the other choices. Therefore, while apples are a good part of a balanced diet, they would not be the first recommendation for someone needing to increase their potassium intake.