A nurse is reinforcing teaching for a client who has COPD. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
A.
I will rest for at least 30 minutes before eating.
B.
I will drink plenty of beverages with my meals.
C.
I will eat five or six small meals each day?
D.
I will increase my intake of protein.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The statement by the client that indicates a need for further teaching is:
B. I will drink plenty of beverages with my meals.
Explanation:
For clients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), dietary management is crucial to help manage symptoms and improve overall health. Let’s break down each of the options in the context of COPD management:
A. I will rest for at least 30 minutes before eating. Resting before meals is beneficial for individuals with COPD. Physical exertion can lead to increased breathlessness, so resting before eating helps reduce the workload on the respiratory system. This allows the client to eat more comfortably and reduces the likelihood of feeling breathless during meals.
B. I will drink plenty of beverages with my meals. This statement indicates a need for further teaching. While staying hydrated is important, drinking large amounts of fluids during meals can lead to bloating and fullness, which may reduce the client’s appetite and make eating more difficult. For COPD patients, the goal is often to avoid excessive fluid intake during meals to prevent these issues. Instead, it’s recommended to drink fluids between meals to stay hydrated without affecting meal intake.
C. I will eat five or six small meals each day. Eating smaller, more frequent meals is advised for clients with COPD. Large meals can cause discomfort and may exacerbate symptoms, such as breathlessness, because they can press against the diaphragm and make breathing more difficult. Small meals are easier to digest and help in maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
D. I will increase my intake of protein. Increasing protein intake is generally beneficial for COPD patients. Adequate protein is important for maintaining muscle mass, including respiratory muscles, which can help improve overall function and energy levels. Protein-rich foods also aid in the healing process and help manage weight.
In summary, for a client with COPD, the most appropriate approach is to manage fluid intake carefully and avoid drinking excessive amounts of beverages with meals to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort and ensure optimal nutritional intake.