Question

The client states, "My doctor says that because I am now taking this water pill, I need to eat more foods that contain potassium. Can you give me some ideas about what foods would be good for this?" The nurse's appropriate response is which of the following?

A) Apricots, dried peas and beans, dates
B) Processed snacks and fast food
C) Sugary cereals and soda
D) High-sodium canned foods

Answer 1

The appropriate response regarding foods high in potassium includes apricots, dried peas and beans, dates, as well as a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, meat, and poultry. Processed snacks, sugary cereals, soda, and high-sodium canned foods should be avoided as they tend to be low in potassium and high in sodium.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse is providing dietary advice to a client taking a water pill (diuretic) that requires increased potassium intake, recommending foods rich in this mineral is essential for maintaining balance and proper functioning of the heart and nerves. Foods that would be good sources of potassium include:

• Apricots, dried peas and beans, dates
• Fruits and vegetables such as potatoes, bananas, oranges, plums, leafy greens, tomatoes, lima beans, and avocado
• Whole grains, fish, meat, poultry

It's important to make healthy food choices, combining plant foods to make complete proteins and limiting intake of sugars, salts, and saturated fats. Opting for fresh foods over processed snacks and fast food is key, as the latter often contains less beneficial nutrients and is higher in sodium. Foods such as processed snacks, sugary cereals, soda, and high-sodium canned foods should be avoided as they do not contribute to a balanced potassium intake.