The nurse is caring for a client who has just been diagnosed with diverticular disease. What dietary teaching will the nurse provide?
"You should increase your fiber intake and include more fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet."
"Avoid foods high in sugar."
"Decrease your fluid intake during the day."
"You should avoid small seeds and nuts."
The Correct Answer is A
Choice a reason:
Increasing fiber intake is crucial for clients with diverticular disease. A high-fiber diet softens the stool and helps it pass more easily, reducing the pressure in the digestive tract. Fresh fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of fiber and other nutrients essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend a dietary fiber intake of 14 grams per 1,000 calories consumed, which equates to 28 grams per day for a 2,000-calorie diet.
Choice b reason:
While avoiding foods high in sugar is generally good advice for overall health, it is not specifically related to the management of diverticular disease. There is no direct link between sugar intake and the symptoms or complications of diverticular disease. However, a diet high in sugar can contribute to obesity, which is a risk factor for the development of diverticulosis.
Choice c reason:
Decreasing fluid intake is not recommended for clients with diverticular disease. In fact, adequate hydration is essential when increasing fiber intake. Fluids help fiber work better by allowing it to absorb water and expand, aiding in easier passage through the intestines.
Choice d reason:
The previous belief that small seeds and nuts should be avoided by individuals with diverticular disease has been debunked. Recent studies have shown that these foods do not increase the risk of complications and are not harmful to individuals with this condition. Therefore, this advice is outdated and no longer considered necessary as part of dietary teaching for diverticular disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice a reason:
A cream to soothe itching may be used if the client is experiencing pruritus, which can sometimes accompany biliary issues due to bile salts in the skin. However, pruritus is not a direct symptom of biliary colic, which is characterized primarily by pain.
Choice b reason:
Pain medication is the appropriate treatment for biliary colic. Biliary colic is caused by the temporary blockage of the bile duct by a gallstone, leading to intense pain in the upper right abdomen or the center of the abdomen. Pain relief is typically achieved with anti-inflammatory drugs or antispasmodics, and in some cases, opioids may be necessary.
Choice c reason:
An antibiotic would be prescribed if there was an infection, such as cholecystitis or cholangitis. Biliary colic itself does not necessarily indicate an infection unless accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or elevated white blood cell count.
Choice d reason:
A laxative is not typically used to treat biliary colic. While laxatives can help relieve constipation, biliary colic is a result of gallstones obstructing the bile duct, not bowel movement issues.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Avoiding frustration by performing activities of daily living (ADLs) for the client may seem helpful, but it can actually lead to increased dependency and a faster decline in the ability to perform these tasks. It is important to encourage independence as much as possible.
Choice B Reason:
Telling jokes or riddles and discussing new items might provide temporary entertainment but does not necessarily help a client with dementia function better in their environment. It could also potentially cause confusion or frustration if the client does not understand or remember the context.
Choice C Reason:
Bringing new topics and options to the client's attention can be overwhelming and may contribute to confusion. Clients with dementia benefit from consistency and routine, which helps them feel more secure and oriented.
Choice D Reason:
Assisting the client to perform simple tasks by giving step-by-step directions is a beneficial intervention. It supports the client's ability to maintain independence and function within their environment for as long as possible. This approach aligns with the goal of maximizing the client's abilities and fostering a sense of accomplishment.
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