A clear liquid breakfast is prescribed for a client who is scheduled for surgery later today. The client asks the nurse for a small cup of chocolate ice cream. Which action should the nurse take?
A.
Call the healthcare provider to clarify if the client may have ice cream as requested.
B.
Offer to prepare a chocolate-flavored liquid nutritional supplement poured over ice.
C.
Provide the chocolate ice cream after determining the presence of bowel sounds.
D.
Explain that a popsicle or a cup of gelatin can be provided rather than ice cream.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct action for the nurse to take is:
D. Explain that a popsicle or a cup of gelatin can be provided rather than ice cream.
Explanation:
A clear liquid diet is typically prescribed to patients who are preparing for surgery or diagnostic tests, as it helps ensure the stomach and intestines are free of solid food, which can interfere with the procedure. Clear liquids are easily digested and leave minimal residue in the gastrointestinal tract, making them suitable for such situations.
Chocolate ice cream, while liquid in form, is not considered appropriate for a clear liquid diet. This is because it contains milk, cream, and other solid particles that are not classified as clear liquids. Clear liquids include water, clear broths, certain fruit juices without pulp, and beverages like tea or coffee without cream. Popsicles and gelatin, on the other hand, are acceptable as they are typically free of solid particles and do not interfere with the preparation process for surgery.
Option A (calling the healthcare provider) is not necessary in this situation because the diet restrictions are standard and well-defined. It’s important for the nurse to adhere to these guidelines rather than seeking clarification for such routine issues.
Option B (offering a chocolate-flavored liquid nutritional supplement) still doesn’t meet the criteria for a clear liquid diet. These supplements are often opaque and contain particles that do not conform to the clear liquid diet requirements.
Option C (providing the chocolate ice cream after assessing bowel sounds) is inappropriate because the clear liquid diet is about the type of food rather than the assessment of bowel sounds. Providing a food item that doesn’t meet the clear liquid criteria could compromise the effectiveness of the preparation for the surgery.
Therefore, Option D is the best course of action. The nurse should explain to the client why chocolate ice cream is not appropriate and offer alternatives that fit the clear liquid diet guidelines, such as popsicles or gelatin. This approach ensures compliance with the dietary restrictions while addressing the client’s request in a suitable manner.