Final Answer:
c. Encourage small, frequent meals
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients with ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, often experience difficulty eating due to abdominal distension. Encouraging small, frequent meals is the most appropriate intervention. Large meals may worsen discomfort and contribute to increased abdominal pressure. Additionally, small, frequent meals can help manage symptoms such as early satiety and improve nutritional intake.
Encouraging high-sodium foods or restricting fluid intake would be counterproductive in this scenario. High-sodium foods can contribute to fluid retention, exacerbating ascites, while fluid restriction may lead to dehydration, impacting overall health. The focus should be on managing symptoms and promoting adequate nutrition through an approach that accommodates the patient's condition.
In summary, the recommendation to encourage small, frequent meals aligns with the goal of supporting the patient's nutritional needs while addressing the challenges posed by ascites. It reflects a patient-centered approach that considers the physiological impact of ascites on eating patterns and aims to optimize nutritional intake for better overall well-being.