Final answer:
The correct identification of the patient's problem is "diarrhea related to food intolerance," focusing specifically on the patient's condition without suggesting a nursing intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
Identifying the patient problem rather than the nursing intervention is key in forming the foundation for an effective nursing care plan. The correct option for identifying the patient's problem is "diarrhea related to food intolerance." This statement focuses on the patient's condition, giving a clear indication of what the problem is without suggesting a specific intervention. In contrast, "offer bedpan frequently because of altered elimination patterns" does not identify the patient's problem but rather a specific nursing intervention that might not directly address the underlying issue.
Food intolerance refers to the digestive system's inability to break down certain types of food, which can lead to symptoms such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, tiredness, and weight loss. Lactose intolerance is an example where the person doesn't have enough of the enzyme lactase to break down lactose, a sugar in milk. Recognizing food intolerance as the cause of the problem can help in treating the symptoms appropriately, for instance by eliminating the offending foods from the diet.