A nurse is providing teaching to a client about high-fiber foods. Which of the following foods should the nurse include as containing the highest amount of fiber?

Choice A reason: Flushing the tubing with water every 4 hours can prevent the tubing from clogging by clearing any residual formula or medication from the lumen.

Choice B reason: Replacing the bag and tubing every 24 hours can prevent bacterial contamination, but it does not prevent the tubing from clogging.

Choice C reason: Administering the feeding by gravity drip can cause overfeeding, aspiration, or diarrhea, but it does not prevent the tubing from clogging.

Choice D reason: Heating the formula prior to infusion can cause bacterial growth, nutrient loss, or burns, but it does not prevent the tubing from clogging.

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.