A nurse is reinforcing teaching about meal planning with a client who has hypertension. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The correct answer is C. Consume a diet high in antioxidants.

Choice A: Complete breast self-examinations one week prior to menstruation.

Performing breast self-examinations one week prior to menstruation is not recommended. The best time to perform a breast self-exam is about 3 to 5 days after your period starts, when your breasts are least likely to be tender or swollen. This timing helps in detecting any unusual changes more accurately.

Choice B: Expect clear discharge from the nipples.

While some nipple discharge can be normal, it is not something that should be expected as a routine part of breast health. Clear, yellow, or white discharge can occur due to hormonal changes, but any spontaneous discharge, especially if it is bloody or from one breast, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Choice C: Consume a diet high in antioxidants.

Consuming a diet high in antioxidants is beneficial for overall health and may help reduce the risk of various diseases, including cancer. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to cancer development. Foods rich in antioxidants include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.

Choice D: Include meats grilled over high heat in the diet.

Including meats grilled over high heat in the diet is not advisable for someone concerned about cancer risk. Grilling meats at high temperatures can produce carcinogens such as heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Therefore, it is better to avoid or limit the consumption of grilled meats.

a) You should shower instead of taking a tub bath. This is correct because showering reduces the risk of infection and promotes wound healing.

b) You may take aspirin for mild pain. This is incorrect because aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding and interfere with clotting. The client should take acetaminophen or another nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for pain relief.

c) You should avoid lifting objects that weigh more than 8 pounds. This is correct because lifting heavy objects can strain the surgical site and cause bleeding or herniation.

d) You might see blood in your urine after coughing. This is correct because coughing can increase the pressure in the bladder and cause blood to leak from the urethra. This is normal and should subside within a few days.

e) You may resume sexual intercourse after 2 weeks. This is incorrect because sexual intercourse can cause trauma to the prostate and urethra and delay healing. The client should wait at least 6 weeks before resuming sexual activity.