Final answer:
Initially, the nurse should ask the postpartum Hispanic client what foods are acceptable, respecting her cultural food preferences and ensuring her dietary needs are met for postpartum recovery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The action a nurse should take initially when a postpartum Hispanic client refuses hospital food because it is "cold" is to ask the client what foods are acceptable to her. This approach shows respect for the client's cultural preferences and enables the nurse to understand the client's dietary needs, which could be influenced by cultural norms about food temperature postpartum. Once the nurse understands the client's preferences, she can collaborate with the dietitian and the kitchen staff to provide meals that the client will eat, which is important for the client's recovery and strength after childbirth.