Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases Related

Review Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who has a nursing diagnosis of imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements. Which of the following interventions is best to address this problem?

  • A. Increase the patient's intake of fruits and fruit juices.
  • B. Have the patient exercise for 10 minutes before meals.
  • C. Assist the patient in choosing foods with a lot of texture.
  • D. Offer high calorie snacks between meals and at bedtime.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Eating small amounts more frequently (as occurs with snacking) will increase caloric intake by decreasing the fatigue and feelings of fullness associated with large meals. Patients with COPD should rest before meals. Foods that have a lot of texture may take more energy to eat and lead to decreased intake. Although fruits and juices are not contraindicated, foods high in protein are a better choice.