Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has acute inflammatory bowel disease. Which of the following nutritional supplements should the nurse anticipate providing to this client?

A) Iron
B) Vitamin B12
C) Calcium
D) Fiber

Answer 1

For a client with acute inflammatory bowel disease, a nurse should anticipate providing Vitamin B12 supplements due to malabsorption issues that can occur with conditions like Crohn's disease. Fiber supplements may be beneficial in a broader dietary management plan for irritable bowel syndrome but are not the primary focus during acute IBD flare-ups.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nutritional Supplements for Acute Inflammatory Bowel Disease

When caring for a client with acute inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), it is important to focus on nutritional support as the disease often impairs the absorption of essential nutrients. Among the nutritional supplements, the nurse should anticipate providing Vitamin B12 to the patient. This is because conditions like Crohn's disease, which is a type of IBD, can affect the ileum where Vitamin B12 is absorbed. Poor absorption of Vitamin B12 can lead to pernicious anemia. In contrast, while fiber supplements can be beneficial in managing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by modifying food choices and improving intestinal function, they may not be the primary focus in acute phases of IBD where inflammation and diarrhea are prevalent.

Patients with IBD, especially those with Crohn's disease, may suffer from malabsorption due to intestinal damage, leading to deficiencies in Vitamin B12. Hence, supplementation is necessary to prevent complications such as anemia. It is crucial to note that fiber intake should be carefully managed in IBD patients, as excessive intake during a flare-up may exacerbate symptoms.