Final answer:
In the acute post liver transplant phase, a patient's nutrition care plan should include increased protein to aid in tissue repair and immune function, while generally avoiding excessive sodium to prevent fluid retention and hypertension.
Step-by-step explanation:
The period following a liver transplant is critical, and proper nutrition is key to recovery. For a patient in the acute post liver transplant phase, the recommendation would include increased protein intake. Protein is vital for tissue repair and immune function, both of which are crucial after an organ transplant. Additionally, the liver plays a significant role in synthesizing albumin, which can be deficient in liver disorders, malnutrition, and nephrosis. However, during recovery, the liver needs an adequate supply of protein to help restore its function and maintain adequate albumin levels to prevent complications such as edema. While the concentrations of albumin decrease in patients with hepatic disorders and increase in conditions like dehydration, it’s important to note that excessive sodium should generally be avoided since it may exacerbate fluid retention and increase blood pressure, further stressing the healing liver.