Fundamentals of Nursing Q 549
The nurse instructs a client with renal failure who is receiving hemodialysis about dietary modifications. The nurse determines that the client understands these dietary modifications if the client selects which items from the dietary menu?
A. Mushroom and blueberry.
B. Beans and bananas.
C. Fish and tomato juice.
D. Potato and spinach.
Correct Answer: A. Mushroom and blueberry.
A renal diet is one that is low in sodium, phosphorus, potassium and protein. A renal diet also emphasizes the importance of consuming high-quality protein and usually limiting fluids. Some patients may also need to limit potassium and calcium. Every person’s body is different, and therefore, it is crucial that each patient works with a renal dietitian to come up with a diet that is tailored to the patient’s needs.
Option B: Bananas are rich in potassium. The kidneys help to keep the right amount of potassium in the body and they expel excess amounts into the urine. When the kidneys fail, they can no longer remove excess potassium, so potassium levels build up in the body.
Option C: Tomato juice is high in sodium. Too much sodium can be harmful for people with kidney disease because their kidneys cannot adequately eliminate excess sodium and fluid from the body. Processed foods often contain higher levels of sodium due to added salt.
Option D: Potatoes and spinach are high in potassium. Potassium plays a role in keeping the heartbeat regular and the muscles working correctly. Potassium is also necessary for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the bloodstream. When the kidneys fail, they can no longer remove excess potassium, so potassium levels build up in the body.