The nurse is teaching a patient with heart failure about dietary modifications to reduce fluid retention and improve cardiac function. Which of the following foods should the nurse advise the patient to limit or avoid?

Adrenergic drugs.These are drugs that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system by mimicking or enhancing the effects of epinephrine and norepinephrine, the chemical messengers that activate adrenergic receptors.Adrenergic drugs can increase blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output, vascular tone, and renin release by acting on different types of adrenergic receptors.

Choice A is wrong because beta blockers are drugs that inhibit the sympathetic nervous system by blocking the beta adrenergic receptors, which are responsible for increasing heart rate and contractility. Beta blockers can lower blood pressure and reduce cardiac workload.

Choice B is wrong because calcium channel blockers are drugs that inhibit the movement of calcium ions across the cell membrane of smooth muscle cells, which are found in blood vessels and the heart.Calcium channel blockers can relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure, as well as reduce heart rate and contractility.

Choice C is wrong because angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are drugs that block the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes vasoconstriction and stimulates the release of aldosterone, which increases sodium and water retention.

ARBs can lower blood pressure by dilating blood

The nurse should advise the patient with heart failure to limit or avoid canned soups and sauces because they are high in sodium, which can cause fluid retention and worsen cardiac function.Sodium intake should be restricted to less than 2 g per day for patients with heart failure.

Choice A is wrong because fresh fruits and vegetables are good sources of potassium, magnesium, and fiber, which are beneficial for heart health.Potassium and magnesium help regulate fluid and electrolyte balance, and fiber helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

Choice B is wrong because whole grains and cereals are also rich in fiber, as well as complex carbohydrates, which provide energy and prevent rapid fluctuations in blood glucose levels.Whole grains and cereals may also contain phytochemicals that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Choice C is wrong because lean meats and poultry are low in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can contribute to atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Lean meats and poultry provide protein, which is essential for tissue repair and wound healing.Protein intake should be adequate but not excessive for patients with heart failure, as too much protein can increase the workload of the kidneys.