Basic Care and Comfort NCLEX PN Questions Nursing Practice Question
The dietitian prescribes a 24-hour calorie count for the malnourished hospitalized client. Which action should be taken by the nurse?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Maintaining a record of food and beverages consumed ensures accurate data for the 24-hour calorie count, allowing for effective nutritional assessment and planning. This approach provides a reliable account of intake, which is crucial for malnourished clients.
Option A is ineffective as recall may lead to inaccuracies, especially in a malnourished state. Option B focuses on teaching calorie counting, which may overwhelm the client rather than facilitate accurate tracking. Option D, while promoting awareness of food groups, does not directly address the need for precise caloric intake documentation. Thus, keeping a record is the most effective method for accurate assessment.