A nurse is providing dietary teaching to a client about sources of protein. The nurse should identify which of the following foods are complete proteins?

Choice A reason: Recommending a total fiber intake of 12 g each day is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take because it is too low for most adults. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA. for fiber is 25 g per day for women and 38 g per day for men, which can help lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, and promote bowel health.

Choice B reason: Referring the client to a weight-loss support group is an appropriate action for the nurse to take because it can help the client achieve and maintain a healthy weight. A body mass index (BMI) of 28 indicates overweight, which can increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. A weight-loss support group can provide education, motivation, and accountability for the client.

Choice C reason: Advising the client to add 500 calories per day to the diet is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take because it can lead to weight gain. A client who has a BMI of 28 does not need to increase their caloric intake unless they have other medical conditions or nutritional needs that require more calories. Adding 500 calories per day to the diet can result in gaining about one pound per week, which can worsen the health outcomes of the client.

Choice D reason: Encouraging the client to continue current daily caloric intake is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take because it may prevent weight loss. A client who has a BMI of 28 needs to reduce their caloric intake by 500 to 1,000 calories per day to lose one to two pounds per week, which is considered a safe and effective rate of weight loss.

Choice A reason: Thawing frozen meat on the counter is not a good practice for food poisoning prevention because it can allow bacteria to grow rapidly on the surface of the meat. Thawing frozen meat should be done in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave.

Choice B reason: Reusing leftover marinade as sauce is not a good practice for food poisoning prevention because it can contaminate cooked food with raw meat juices that may contain bacteria. Leftover marinade should be discarded or boiled for at least one minute before using as sauce.

Choice C reason: Apple pie is a good choice for food poisoning prevention because it is unlikely to contain harmful bacteria or toxins. Apple pie is made from cooked apples, sugar, flour, and butter, which are low-risk ingredients for food poisoning. Apple pie should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer after cooling to prevent spoilage.

Choice D reason: Cooked rice is not a good choice for food poisoning prevention because it can harbor a bacterium called Bacillus cereus, which can produce toxins that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Cooked rice should be cooled quickly and stored in the refrigerator for no more than one day or in the freezer for longer periods. Cooked rice should be reheated thoroughly before eating.