A nurse is obtaining a weekly weight for a client who has obesity and osteoarthritis and is on a weight management program. The nurse determines that the client gained 1.36 kg (3 lb) in the past week. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
A “You should try a little harder to stick to your diet.”
B “Why do you think you’ve gained 3 pounds this week?”
C “Were there any issues last week that kept you from focusing on your diet?”
D “You should put this week behind you and adhere to your diet from this point forward.”
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The most appropriate response for the nurse to make in this situation is:
C “Were there any issues last week that kept you from focusing on your diet?”
Explanation:
When discussing weight changes with a client, especially in the context of a weight management program, it’s important to approach the conversation with sensitivity and support. Here’s why option C is the best choice:
- Understanding and Support: Option C focuses on understanding the client’s experience rather than placing blame or judgment. It invites the client to share any challenges they faced, which can provide insights into why there might have been a weight gain. This approach fosters a supportive relationship and can help in identifying practical solutions to overcome obstacles.
- Encouraging Communication: By asking about specific issues that might have interfered with their diet, the nurse encourages open communication. This can lead to a more detailed discussion about potential barriers, such as stress, lack of time, or difficulties in sticking to the diet plan, which can be crucial for making effective adjustments to the weight management program.
- Avoiding Negative Reactions: Options A and B could be perceived as judgmental or confrontational. Telling the client to “try harder” or questioning why they think they gained weight might make them feel defensive or guilty, which is not conducive to a positive and productive conversation.
- Focus on Solutions: Option D might be perceived as dismissive of the client’s current concerns. While it’s important to move forward and adhere to the diet, understanding and addressing the reasons behind the weight gain can help the client make more meaningful and sustainable changes.
In summary, option C is the most supportive and constructive approach. It aims to understand the client’s experience and collaboratively address any issues that may be impacting their progress. This not only helps in resolving current challenges but also strengthens the client-nurse relationship, enhancing the effectiveness of the weight management program.