The nurse is setting up a meal tray and notes that the client refuses to look at the food and asks the nurse to take it away

Question

The meal contains a chicken breast, green beans, fruit cocktail, and cottage cheese. Which response by the nurse is the most appropriate?
1. "I know you are not hungry so just let me know when you want your tray."
2. "The hospital food is horrible here."
3. "Is there a problem with the food being sent to you?"
4. "I will get you some juice and crackers from the unit kitchen."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3

The nurse must be alert and aware of cultural preferences related to dietary habits. Further assessment in this situation is needed to obtain data about the client's inability to look at or eat the food. While the patient may not be hungry, the nurse must determine if this is indeed the case. Telling the patient the food is horrible is inappropriate and does not promote the dietary intake of the client. Offering other food options may be an option once the underlying cause for the client's refusal is determined. Offering juice and crackers is not appropriate for the situation.