Question

A client with a history of diverticular disease is being discharged after an episode of acute diverticulitis. Which instructions should be included in the discharge teaching plan to reduce the risk of future episodes? Select all that apply.

1. Drink plenty of fluids
2. Exercise regularly
3. Follow a low-residue diet
4. Include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in the diet
5. Increase intake of red meat

Answer 1

Answer: 1. Drink plenty of fluids

2. Exercise regularly

4. Include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in the diet

Step-by-step explanation:

Diverticular disease is a common disease that is responsible for causing small bulges or sacs to the wall of the large intestine. These sacs or bulges can be seen anywhere in the colon, they can be commonly seen in the sigmoid colon (it is the part of the large intestine can be found closest to the rectum). This condition develop due to the development of high pressure of waste or fecal matter inside the colon. This pressure will lead to the bulging out and formation of sacs over the intestine. Also a diet which contains extremely low content of fiber and high red meat content may also cause this condition.

The following instructions should be given to reduce the risk of future episodes:

1. Drink plenty of fluids: Water will liquefy the solid digested food content will help in easy passage of stool.

2. Exercise regularly: This will improve in digestion.

4. Include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in the diet: These food items will be rich in fiber diet which will give a bulk to the stools and preventing the risk of constipation.