In the last month, three cases of tuberculosis have been referred to the health department. Which of the following is the priority information for the community health nurse to obtain from each client?

Choice A reason: Providing the client with a printed recipe is not the first action that the nurse should take when assisting this client. The nurse should first assess the client's current dietary practices and preferences, and then provide culturally appropriate and individualized education and guidance.

Choice B reason: Observing the client during preparation of traditional foods is the first action that the nurse should take when assisting this client. This will help the nurse to understand the client's cultural values and beliefs, as well as the ingredients and methods used in preparing the foods. The nurse can then offer suggestions on how to modify the recipes to fit the client's meal plan.

Choice C reason: Using cookbooks to include traditional foods in meal plans is not the first action that the nurse should take when assisting this client. The nurse should first observe the client's food choices and cooking techniques, and then collaborate with the client to find cookbooks that are suitable for the client's culture and health condition.

Choice D reason: Explaining diabetes exchange list is not the first action that the nurse should take when assisting this client. The nurse should first observe the client's eating habits and patterns, and then educate the client on how to use the exchange list to plan balanced meals that include traditional foods.

Choice A reason: Determining the client's understanding of her living situation is the first action that the nurse should take. This is based on the principle of client-centered care, which states that the nurse should respect the client's values, preferences, and needs, and involve the client in the decision-making process. The nurse should assess the client's perception of her homelessness, the factors that contributed to it, and the resources that are available to her.

Choice B reason: Assisting the client to develop goals for obtaining shelter is not the first action that the nurse should take. This is an important intervention, but it should be done after the nurse has assessed the client's understanding of her living situation and explored the client's readiness and motivation to change.

Choice C reason: Discussing the risks of being homeless with the client is not the first action that the nurse should take. This is an important intervention, but it should be done after the nurse has assessed the client's understanding of her living situation and established a trusting relationship with the client. The nurse should avoid being judgmental or paternalistic, and instead use a harm reduction approach that focuses on minimizing the negative consequences of homelessness.

Choice D reason: Developing client teaching using a variety of strategies is not the first action that the nurse should take. This is an important intervention, but it should be done after the nurse has assessed the client's understanding of her living situation and identified the client's learning needs and preferences. The nurse should use strategies that are appropriate for the client's literacy level, language, culture, and cognitive ability.