A nurse is reinforcing teaching about carbohydrate counting with a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

The correct answer is choice B: Ask the client what they already know about meal planning.

Choice A rationale:

Using pictures of different food groups can be helpful in teaching about carbohydrate counting, but it's important to assess the client's current knowledge and understanding before introducing new information. Starting with this approach might overwhelm the client or duplicate information they already possess.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct choice. Before providing education, it's crucial to assess the client's baseline knowledge. By asking the client what they already know about meal planning, the nurse can tailor the teaching plan to fill in any gaps and avoid presenting redundant information. This approach respects the client's current understanding and focuses on addressing their specific needs.

Choice C rationale:

Giving the client a brochure with sample menus can be helpful once the nurse has assessed the client's knowledge and educational needs. However, providing the brochure as the first action might not be effective if the client already has some understanding of meal planning or if the brochure does not address the client's specific questions.

Choice D rationale:

Involving the family in the discussion of the client's meal plan is important for long-term support, but it shouldn't be the first action. First, the nurse should ensure that the client's own understanding and preferences are addressed before considering input from family members.

The correct answer is Choice C: 3+ pitting edema.

Choice A rationale:

1+ pitting edema refers to mild pitting edema. It is characterized by a slight indentation that disappears rapidly. A measurement of 6 mm edema is beyond the scope of 1+ pitting edema.

Choice B rationale:

2+ pitting edema indicates moderate pitting edema. It is characterized by a deeper indentation that takes a few seconds to rebound. While 6 mm edema might be associated with 2+ pitting edema, it is not the most accurate description.

Choice C rationale:

3+ pitting edema signifies moderately severe pitting edema. It is characterized by a noticeable indentation that remains for a short duration. A measurement of 6 mm edema aligns with 3+ pitting edema, making it the correct choice.

Choice D rationale:

4+ pitting edema represents severe pitting edema. It is characterized by a deep indentation that persists for a significant amount of time. 6 mm edema is not typically associated with 4+ pitting edema.