Question

A nurse is caring for a ct who has age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and asks the nurse if there are any nutritional changes to consider. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

a) "Consider increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids."
b) "Avoid all fruits and vegetables."
c) "Decrease protein intake."
d) "Consume high amounts of caffeine."

Answer 1

For a patient with age-related macular degeneration, the nurse should recommend increasing the intake of omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in foods such as salmon, walnuts, and flax seeds.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best nutritional advice for a patient with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) would be to consider increasing the intake of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential nutrients are found in foods such as salmon, walnuts, flax seeds, and canola oil. Increasing omega-3 intake has been associated with a variety of health benefits, including potentially slowing the progression of diseases like AMD.

It is important for individuals with AMD to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and phytochemicals, while avoiding excessive sugar, salt, and saturated fats. Instead of the options like avoiding all fruits and vegetables, decreasing protein intake, or consuming high amounts of caffeine, increasing omega-3 fatty acids is a beneficial and commonly recommended dietary change for those with AMD.

Answer 2

Increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids is a nutritional change recommended for patients with age-related macular degeneration, as it may help slow disease progression (option a).

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a patient with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), it is crucial to consider nutritional changes that can help manage the progression of the disease. Among the options provided, the appropriate response a nurse should make is: "Consider increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids." This recommendation is supported by evidence suggesting that omega-3 fatty acids have beneficial effects on eye health and may slow the progression of AMD. Contrary to the other options given, increasing omega-3 fatty acids can be accomplished by consuming foods like salmon, walnuts, and flax seeds.

It is also important to consume a balanced diet rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables, which supply essential vitamins and phytochemicals, as well as adhere to guidelines that limit sugar, salt, and saturated fats.

Hence, the answer is option a.