Question

When counseling a preeclamptic client about her diet, what should the nurse encourage the woman to do?

a. Restrict sodium intake.
b. Increase intake of fluids.
c. Eat a well-balanced diet.
d. Avoid simple sugars.

Answer 1

For a preeclamptic client, it is crucial to eat a well-balanced diet that limits sodium and added sugars while emphasizing the consumption of whole fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to manage the condition effectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

When counseling a preeclamptic client about her diet, the nurse should encourage the woman to eat a well-balanced diet. This includes adopting habits such as:

Limiting the intake of sodium and choosing foods with lower sodium content, such as in soups, bread, and frozen meals.

Drinking water or other unsweetened beverages instead of sugary drinks to decrease added sugars consumption.

Increasing intake of fruits and vegetables, which are high in vitamins, and opting for whole fruits over juices for their higher fiber content and lower sugar levels.

Limited consumption of saturated fats and refined carbohydrates, while incorporating more fish, legumes, and sources of omega-3 fatty acids into meals.

Staying hydrated by drinking adequate fluids, aiming for around 2 liters per day, and selecting water and unsweetened drinks over those with added sugars.

This dietary approach helps manage and prevent the progression of preeclampsia by reducing the excretory load on the kidneys, maintaining adequate hydration, and ensuring proper nutrition without excessive sodium or sugar that could exacerbate hypertension.