Question

The nurse provides care for a client diagnosed with cervical cancer. The nurse notes that the client appears to have a poor appetite. Which intervention by the nurse is best?

a) Encourage the client to eat large meals at once.

b) Suggest high-calorie, nutrient-dense snacks between meals.

c) Advise the client to skip meals to avoid nausea.

d) Discourage the intake of fluids to prevent early satiety.

Answer 1

The best intervention for a client with cervical cancer and a poor appetite is to suggest high-calorie, nutrient-dense snacks between meals, as it helps maintain energy levels and nutrient intake without causing discomfort. Option b is the answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's best intervention for a client diagnosed with cervical cancer who has a poor appetite is to suggest high-calorie, nutrient-dense snacks between meals. Encouraging the client to eat large meals at once may be overwhelming due to their poor appetite and can lead to further aversion to eating. Advising the client to skip meals is not beneficial as it might result in inadequate nutrition. It is also not advisable to discourage the intake of fluids as hydration is important, and fluids can also provide necessary nutrients if properly chosen (like in the form of smoothies or nutritional shakes).

It is important to listen to the client's preferences and encourage eating small, frequent meals/snacks throughout the day. This can help maintain their energy levels and ensure they get the nutrients they need without causing discomfort. Additionally, the nurse should monitor for signs of nausea and address them, as this is a common barrier to adequate nutrition in cancer patients.