The nurse is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with malnutrition. Which finding supports the medical diagnosis?

Choice A

Opened package of hot dogs is not correct. Hot dogs are processed and often contain preservatives that help extend their shelf life. However, it's still important to follow proper storage guidelines to ensure their safety.

Choice B

Packaged of uncooked lamb chops is not correct. Uncooked meats are generally safe if stored properly. The main concern arises when cooking and handling them, as raw meats can potentially cross-contaminate other foods if proper sanitation measures are not followed.

Choice C

Opened package of deli sliced meat is correct. Among the options provided, an opened package of deli sliced meats (option C) is most likely to pose a threat of food poisoning after being stored in a refrigerator at 40°F (4.4°C) or below for more than two days.

Deli sliced meats are considered a high-risk food for bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses. When meats are sliced and exposed to air, they have a larger surface area, making them more susceptible to bacterial contamination. While the refrigerator temperature of 40°F (4.4°C) helps slow down bacterial growth, it doesn't completely prevent it, especially if the food has been stored for an extended period of time.

Choice D

Ground-up hamburger raw meat is not correct. Similar to uncooked lamb chops, raw ground meat is generally safe when stored properly and handled with care. However, ground meats do have a larger surface area that can allow bacteria to grow more easily, which is why safe cooking practices are important.

Choice A

Describing the value of eating smaller portion sizes is not appropriate. While portion control is important, this advice alone might not address the overall dietary quality and exercise component necessary for effective weight loss.

Choice B

Encouraging a well-balanced diet and moderate exercise is appropriate. This intervention focuses on promoting healthy and sustainable weight loss. A well-balanced diet helps ensure that the client is getting all the necessary nutrients while aiming for a calorie deficit for weight loss. Moderate exercise complements dietary changes and contributes to overall health and weight management.

Choice C

Exploring the reasons, the client wants to lose weight is inappropriate. While understanding the client's motivations is valuable, this doesn't directly provide guidance on how to achieve the goal of losing 10 pounds.

Choice D

Determining if the client has a history of anorexia is inappropriate. While assessing for eating disorders is important in general, assuming there's no indication of anorexia, the focus should be on providing guidance for safe and effective weight loss.