A young adult client with a history of iron deficiency anaemia has a haemoglobin of 10.5 g/dL (6.52 mmol/L). Which food choice should the nurse recommend to this client?

Reference Range

Haemoglobin (Hgb) [Reference Range: Male: 14 to 18 g/dL or 8.7 to 11.2 mmol/L]

Choice A

High protein should be encouraged. The small reddened area on the coccyx is concerning for a potential pressure ulcer (also known as a pressure sore or bed sore). Pressure ulcers can occur when there is prolonged pressure on a specific area of the skin, often in individuals who are bedridden or have limited mobility. Adequate nutrition, including a high protein diet, is essential for preventing and promoting the healing of pressure ulcers. Protein is crucial for tissue repair and wound healing. A diet high in protein can aid in the recovery of damaged skin and promote the healing process. It helps to maintain and rebuild skin tissue, which is particularly important when dealing with potential pressure ulcers.

Choice B

High roughage should not be encouraged. While dietary fibre (roughage) is important for overall bowel health and regularity, it may not have a direct impact on wound healing in this context.

Choice C

Low cholesterol should not be encouraged. A low cholesterol diet is typically recommended to manage cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease. While overall health is important, cholesterol levels may not have a direct impact on wound healing in this case.

Choice D

Low salt should not be encouraged. A low salt diet is often recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as hypertension or heart failure. While maintaining a balanced diet is important, salt intake may not be the primary concern when addressing wound healing.

Choice A

Explain the benefits of a high fibre diet is not correct response. While a high fibre diet can indeed be beneficial for individuals with haemorrhoids by promoting regular bowel movements and reducing strain during defecation, the immediate concern here is addressing the client's understanding about avoiding nuts and seeds. This information could be provided as a follow-up after confirming the client's understanding in response to option B.

Choice B

Confirm that these foods should be avoided is the correct response. In this situation, the nurse's first response should be to confirm the client's understanding and provide accurate information about the need to avoid certain foods. Nuts and seeds can be challenging to digest and may lead to irritation and inflammation in individuals with haemorrhoids. Confirming the client's understanding and providing guidance aligns with the nurse's role in patient education and care.

Choice C

Encourage soft foods such as yogurt is not the correct response. Encouraging soft foods like yogurt is a reasonable suggestion for someone with haemorrhoids, as soft foods are generally easier to digest and less likely to cause irritation. However, the client's statement was specifically about avoiding nuts and seeds. While this choice might be relevant, it doesn't directly address the client's statement.

Choice D

Suggest that the client also avoid fruit skins is not the correct response. This option is not directly related to the client's concern about nuts and seeds. Fruit skins generally contain dietary fibre, which can be beneficial for maintaining regular bowel movements. While some individuals might find that certain fruits with tough skins could exacerbate their haemorrhoid symptoms, this advice might be better suited for a separate discussion about dietary choices rather than as a direct response to the client's statement.