A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for tetracycline. Which of the following nutritional considerations should the nurse note in the teaching?

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.

Choice A reason: Offering the client frozen banana as a snack is an appropriate intervention for the nurse to take because it can help soothe and cool the inflamed mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, which are caused by stomatitis. Stomatitis is an inflammation of the oral cavity that can result from radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Frozen banana also provides potassium, vitamin C, and fiber for the client.

Choice B reason: Serving the client hot meals is not an appropriate intervention for the nurse to take because it can worsen nausea and vomiting. Hot meals are aromatic, spicy, and greasy, which are characteristics of emetic foods. Hot meals can also irritate the stomach lining and trigger the gag reflex.

Choice C reason: Avoiding serving sauces or gravies is not an appropriate intervention for the nurse to take because it can cause dehydration and malnutrition. Sauces and gravies are liquid, mild, and moist, which are characteristics of antiemetic foods. Sauces and gravies can also enhance the flavor and texture of bland foods and provide calories and nutrients for the client.

Choice D reason: Discouraging the use of a straw is not an appropriate intervention for the nurse to take because it can prevent adequate fluid intake and hydration. Using a straw can help the client sip small amounts of clear liquids, such as water, ginger ale, or broth, which are antiemetic fluids. Using a straw can also reduce the exposure to odors and tastes that may cause nausea.