A nurse is teaching dietary guidelines to a client who has celiac disease.
Which of the following food choices is appropriate for this client?

Choice A rationale:

A swollen area on the calf can indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious complication of immobility. Immobilization can lead to blood stasis in the veins, increasing the risk of clot formation. DVT can result in severe complications, such as pulmonary embolism, making it a critical concern that requires immediate attention.

Choice B rationale:

Increased blood pressure is not a direct complication of immobility. However, immobility can contribute to hypertension over time due to factors such as weight gain and reduced cardiovascular fitness. While hypertension is a concern, it is not an acute complication of immobility that necessitates immediate intervention.

Choice C rationale:

Decreased serum calcium levels are not a direct complication of immobility. Immobility can lead to bone density loss and potential fractures due to reduced weight-bearing activities, but it does not cause an acute decrease in serum calcium levels.

Choice D rationale:

Urinary frequency is not a typical complication of immobility. Immobility can affect the urinary system, potentially leading to urinary stasis and increased risk of urinary tract infections, but urinary frequency is not a direct result of immobility.

The correct answer is: b. “Tighten your muscles before relaxing them when using muscle relaxation techniques.”

Rationale for Choice B: Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is a well-established technique used in stress management and relaxation therapy. It involves systematically tensing and then relaxing specific muscle groups throughout the body. By tensing the muscles first, individuals can become more aware of the contrast between tension and relaxation, thereby enhancing the relaxation response. This heightened awareness helps individuals recognize and release muscular tension more effectively, leading to deeper relaxation and stress relief.

Rationale for Choice A: Choice A suggests talking to someone admired as the first step in using mindfulness techniques to relax. However, mindfulness practices typically involve cultivating awareness of the present moment without judgment. While seeking support from others may be beneficial for stress management, it is not a foundational aspect of mindfulness practice. Mindfulness often entails individual introspection and observation of one's thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations.

Rationale for Choice C: Choice C recommends breathing in through the mouth and out through the nose during deep breathing exercises. While there are various breathing techniques utilized in stress management, the typical recommendation for deep breathing exercises is to inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth. Nasal breathing helps regulate the flow of air, optimizes oxygen exchange, and activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress reduction.

Rationale for Choice D: Choice D proposes imagining a stimulating situation when practicing guided imagery. However, guided imagery is a relaxation technique that involves creating vivid mental images of calming and tranquil scenes, such as a serene beach or peaceful forest. The purpose of guided imagery is to evoke positive emotions, reduce stress, and induce a state of deep relaxation. Imagining stimulating situations may have the opposite effect, potentially increasing arousal and tension rather than promoting relaxation.

In summary, while all choices may have some relevance to stress management, Choice B is the most appropriate as it aligns with the established technique of Progressive Muscle Relaxation. Choices A, C, and D deviate from widely recognized relaxation methods and are therefore considered incorrect in this context.