Which of the following is a common symptom of diverticular disease?

B. Increase fiber in the diet: This is the correct option. Increasing dietary fiber intake is one of the most important interventions to prevent diverticular disease and reduce the risk of diverticulitis. Adequate fiber intake promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation, which can help reduce pressure in the colon and minimize the formation of diverticula.
A. Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which may actually help prevent diverticular disease. Therefore, while avoiding nuts and seeds may be advised during an acute diverticulitis flare-up to reduce irritation to the colon, it is not the most important long-term preventive intervention.
C. While stress management techniques may contribute to overall health and well-being, they are not the most important intervention specifically for preventing diverticular disease.
D. While physical activity and exercise are important for overall health and may help improve bowel function, there is limited evidence to suggest that strengthening abdominal muscles alone can prevent diverticular disease.

A. Teach the client to support the surgical site while deep breathing and coughing: This action is appropriate as it helps prevent complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia by promoting lung expansion and clearing secretions. Supporting the surgical site while deep breathing and coughing helps reduce pain and discomfort during these activities.
B. This is an important teaching point for clients using PCA for pain control after surgery. Opioid medications used in PCA can lead to gastrointestinal motility issues, including constipation. However, pain management is central within the first 24 hours post operation.
C. Irrigating and repositioning the NGT frequently can increase the risk of complications such as displacement or irritation of the surgical site. NGT care should be performed as needed based on institutional protocols and the client's condition.

D. The client's diet will likely be advanced gradually, starting with clear fluids and progressing to full liquids and then solid foods as tolerated. Fruit juices may be introduced gradually as part of the liquid diet once the client's gastrointestinal function has recovered sufficiently.