Final answer:
To prevent hemorrhoids, nurses should advise patients to stay physically active, eat a high-fiber diet, and drink plenty of water.
Step-by-step explanation:
When teaching a patient with new onset hemorrhoids about prevention, the nurse should include information on maintaining a healthy lifestyle that supports regular bowel movements and prevents straining. Key points include:
- Staying physically active to encourage regular bowel movements.
- Maintaining a high-fiber diet, with foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, which can help soften the stool and promote easier passage, reducing strain during bowel movements.
- Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated to prevent constipation and to keep stools soft.
Conversely, patients should avoid sitting on hard surfaces for prolonged periods and should not limit fluid intake or avoid high-fiber foods, as these actions can exacerbate the condition.