Question

A nurse is providing dietary teaching for a client who has COPD. which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A) Eat at least three well-proportioned, large meals a day.
B) Drink low-protein, low-calorie nutrition formulas between meals.
C) Avoid adding gravies and sauces to foods.
D) Consume foods that are soft in texture and easy to chew.

Answer 1

For a client with COPD, it's important to consume foods that are soft and easy to chew, eat smaller frequent meals, and follow a nutrient-rich diet as per the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans to support easier breathing and overall health.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a client who has COPD, dietary teaching should emphasize the importance of consuming foods that are soft in texture and easy to chew. This guidance is crucial as COPD can make breathing difficult, especially during and after large meals. Therefore, instruction D) Consume foods that are soft in texture and easy to chew should be included in the teaching.

Other key elements of a healthful diet include eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to prevent feeling too full, which can exacerbate breathing difficulties. It's also important to ensure adequate nutrient intake that includes a balance of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy, aligning with the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Avoidance of foods high in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars, as well as maintaining a reasonable calorie intake is advised for optimal health.