The home health nurse is visiting an older client who was discharged from the hospital 3 days ago following hip pinning surgery. The client lives with her daughter, who prepares the family meals. In discussing nutrition for postoperative healing, which food choices should the nurse suggest for this client's diet? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A

24-hour food recall, food preferences, and allergies is incorrect. While these factors are important for understanding the client's dietary habits and possible dietary restrictions, they do not directly provide information about the client's current nutritional status or overall nutritional health.

Choice B

Body mass index (BMI) and serum albumin level is correct. Body mass index (BMI) and serum albumin level are commonly used parameters to assess a client's nutritional status. These measures provide valuable information about the client's weight, muscle mass, and protein status. Let's break down the options:

Choice C

Triceps skin fold and mid-arm circumference is incorrect. These measurements can provide information about the client's body composition and muscle mass. However, they are not as commonly used as BMI and serum albumin level for assessing nutritional status.

Choice D

Weight loss history and body surface area (BSA) is incorrect. Weight loss history is relevant for understanding changes in the client's weight over time, which can indicate potential malnutrition. However, it's not as comprehensive as BMI, which considers both weight and height. Body surface area (BSA) is not typically used to assess nutritional status.

Choice A

Potatoes, bananas, and oranges should be encouraged. Hypokalaemia refers to a lower than normal level of potassium in the blood. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining proper muscle function, nerve signalling, and fluid balance in the body. To address hypokalaemia, it's important to consume foods that are rich in potassium.

Choice B

Cranberry juice, butter, and hard candy. None of these foods are particularly high in potassium should not be encouraged. Cranberry juice is more commonly associated with urinary tract health, and butter and hard candy do not contribute significant amounts of potassium.

Choice C

Milk products, canned salmon, and fresh oysters should not be encouraged. While milk products contain some potassium, they are not as potent a source as other options. Canned salmon and fresh oysters do provide some potassium, but they are not as well-known for their potassium content as other foods like bananas and potatoes.

Choice D

Hard cheese, whole grain cereals, and dried vegetables should not be encouraged. These foods are not known for being particularly high in potassium. Hard cheese and whole grain cereals have limited potassium content, and dried vegetables, while containing some potassium, are not among the best sources.