A client who recently underwent a coronary artery bypass graft is taking furosemide and metoprolol following the procedure. While developing a plan for a heart-healthy diet with the nurse, the client states that diet did not contribute to the heart disease and that the client should be fine just continuing to take the medications. According to the Stages of Change Model, which stage of change is the client in related to diet?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The Stages of Change Model tracks behavior shift, and this client's denial of diet's role in heart disease places them in precontemplation. Here, individuals show no intent to change within six months, often resisting evidence like diet's link to atherosclerosis clinging to beliefs that meds alone suffice. Contemplation involves considering change, preparation plans it, and maintenance sustains it none apply, as the client isn't pondering dietary shifts. This stage reflects unawareness or defiance, common post-surgery when focusing on recovery, not prevention. Nursing must gently challenge this, using education like explaining sodium's impact on heart strain to nudge awareness, critical for moving them toward contemplation and eventual heart-healthy habits, preventing further cardiac issues.