Final answer:
The medical-surgical nurse would recommend a diet that is low in fiber, and high in protein and calories for a patient with Crohn's disease, especially during periods of flare-ups to manage symptoms and ensure proper nutrition.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a patient with Crohn's disease, a recommended diet often focuses on managing symptoms and nutritional deficiencies that can occur due to the disease. During active flare-ups, high fiber foods might exacerbate symptoms; therefore, the medical-surgical nurse would suggest a diet that is low in fiber, and high in protein and calories to help with healing and maintaining nutritional status. It's essential that patients with Crohn's disease receive adequate nutrition, particularly during periods of flare-ups, which can lead to increased nutritional requirements due to inflammation and malabsorption.
When the disease is in remission, a balanced diet that is higher in fiber can be beneficial for maintaining overall health, although each patient's tolerance to fiber can vary. Special attention should be given to include potassium-rich foods if the patient is at risk of deficiency, especially after episodes of diarrhea or if taking certain medications.