A nurse is selecting food items for a client who follows a lacto-vegetarian diet. Which of the following foods should the nurse include in the meal?

Choice A reason: Potassium 3.5 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Potassium is an electrolyte that regulates nerve and muscle function, acid-base balance, and fluid balance. Potassium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and dehydration.

Choice B reason: Sodium 145 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 136 to 145 mEq/L. Sodium is an electrolyte that regulates blood pressure, blood volume, and fluid balance. Sodium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and fluid loss.

Choice C reason: Hematocrit 53% is a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is above the normal range, which is 38 to 50% for men and 34 to 46% for women. Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume. Hematocrit level can increase due to dehydration, which causes hemoconcentration or increased blood viscosity.

Choice D reason: HbA1c 5% is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is less than 5.7%. HbA1c is the percentage of hemoglobin that is attached to glucose. HbA1c level reflects the average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. HbA1c level can be affected by various factors, such as diabetes, anemia, and medication.

Choice A reason: Tuna fish is a good food choice for an older adult client who has difficulty chewing due to missing teeth because it is soft, moist, and easy to swallow. Tuna fish also provides protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D for the client.

Choice B reason: Roast beef is not a good food choice for an older adult client who has difficulty chewing due to missing teeth because it is tough, dry, and hard to chew. Roast beef can cause pain, fatigue, or choking for the client who has missing teeth. Roast beef should be avoided or cut into very small pieces and moistened with gravy or sauce before consuming.

Choice C reason: Apple slices are not a good food choice for an older adult client who has difficulty chewing due to missing teeth because they are crisp, firm, and sticky. Apple slices can cause irritation or injury to the gums or mouth or dislodge any remaining teeth. Apple slices should be avoided or cooked until soft and mashed before consuming.

Choice D reason: Dried fruit is not a good food choice for an older adult client who has difficulty chewing due to missing teeth because they are chewy, sticky, and sugary. Dried fruit can adhere to the gums or teeth and cause dental caries or gum disease. Dried fruit should be avoided or soaked in water until soft and cut into small pieces before consuming.