Final answer:
The nurse should advise the client to avoid dairy-rich foods to prevent worsening of duodenal ulcer symptoms and instead focus on an ulcer-friendly diet and lifestyle changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
While duodenal ulcers and peptic ulcers, in general, are commonly misunderstood to be greatly affected by diet, modern medical research has shown that factors such as H. pylori infection and the chronic use of NSAIDs have a more direct impact on their development. Contrary to popular belief, the consumption of dairy products, including milk, does not necessarily benefit those with ulcers, as it does not coat or protect the ulcer site. In fact, dairy can be problematic for some individuals, so it is not the ideal dietary choice for ulcer management.
The best follow-up action by the nurse, therefore, would be to b. Review with the client the need to avoid foods that are rich in milk and cream. This is due to the presence of fats in dairy products that can stimulate the stomach to produce more acid, which can in turn exacerbate ulcer symptoms. It's also important for clients to understand that small, frequent meals can help minimize discomfort, and avoiding irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.
The nurse should review with the client the necessity of avoiding foods rich in milk and cream to prevent additional stomach acid production, which can worsen the duodenal ulcer symptoms. It's also vital to educate about the overall ulcer-friendly diet and lifestyle modifications for better management and healing of ulcers.