The nurse is caring for a client with a new diagnosis of anemia. Which dietary recommendation should the nurse provide?

Choice A reason: Gluten avoidance is specific to celiac disease, not Crohn’s, which involves autoimmune inflammation of the gut. Crohn’s dietary triggers vary individually, and gluten is not a universal issue. An elimination diet identifies specific triggers, making this response incorrect for Crohn’s management.

Choice B reason: Fluid restriction is not a primary limitation in Crohn’s disease, which often requires adequate hydration due to diarrhea. Restricting fluids could worsen dehydration. An elimination diet to identify trigger foods is more appropriate, as dietary management focuses on individual sensitivities, not fluid limits.

Choice C reason: An elimination diet identifies trigger foods causing Crohn’s flare-ups, as sensitivities vary. By systematically removing and reintroducing foods, patients pinpoint irritants like dairy or fiber, personalizing dietary management. This is the most effective approach, as Crohn’s lacks universal dietary restrictions, making it the correct response.

Choice D reason: Limiting calcium and iron is not standard for Crohn’s, as these nutrients are often deficient due to malabsorption. Supplementation may be needed. An elimination diet better addresses symptom triggers, as nutrient restriction could exacerbate deficiencies without targeting inflammatory food triggers.

Choice A reason: Administering aspirin is appropriate for ischemic stroke but premature without confirming stroke type. Hemorrhagic stroke contraindicates aspirin. A head CT scan distinguishes ischemic from hemorrhagic stroke, guiding treatment, making it the priority to ensure safe intervention.

Choice B reason: Obtaining a head CT scan is the priority, as it differentiates ischemic from hemorrhagic stroke, critical for guiding treatment like thrombolytics or anticoagulation. Rapid imaging within the therapeutic window ensures timely intervention, minimizing brain damage, making it the essential first step.

Choice C reason: Monitoring blood glucose is important, as hyperglycemia worsens stroke outcomes, but it is secondary to confirming stroke type. A head CT scan provides diagnostic clarity, guiding urgent therapy, making imaging the priority over metabolic assessments in suspected stroke.

Choice D reason: Elevating the head of the bed reduces intracranial pressure but is not the first step. A head CT scan confirms stroke type, ensuring appropriate interventions like thrombolytics for ischemic stroke, making imaging critical to guide management and prevent further brain injury.