Cooking CompanionChapter 13

IntroductionIn this chapter we will cover everyday

suggestions to meet everyday problems that people face while eating.

These problems can present with all clients and all types of diets.

You will become familiar how to observe for changes.

Always check with your supervisor before implementing changes.

Feeding DifficultiesEating and digestion difficulties can occur for a

variety of reasons.Problems may arise because of physical

reasons, medication, chemotherapy or any combination.

Feeding and digestive problems can have a negative impact on nutrition and overall health.

Problem solving may include change in meals, timing of meals, timing of medication and types of food.

Loss of AppetiteWhen there is a significant

change in appetite it must be noticed and addressed.

Changes may be related to: Medication Stress(physical, emotional,

mental) Pain Fatigue Poor fitting dentures Difficulty breathing

(emphysema) Difficulty swallowing Change in diet Allergies Eating disorder Chemotherapy and radiation

therapy

Bloating / EdemaEdema-cause by fluid

imbalance. May be due to change in fx of internal organs, protein imbalance, medication or change in chronic disease.

The bloating feeling can be limited to one part of the body or all over.

May affect breathing, walking and sleeping.

Should be reported immediately

Bloating / EdemaWhen you report:Where the edema is locatedThe extend of the edemaWhat is affectedHow long the condition has

existedIf it occurred before and

what may have relieved it.Do not assist the client with

any change in medication or restrict fluids unless you are told to do so. Make the client comfortable.

GasGas/ Flatus is a normal part

of digestion. Gas is not a problem unless the client is uncomfortable or cannot expel the gas. Change in position or walking may help relieve the problem.

Limit the following foods:Apples , broccoli, soda

pop, corn, milk products, onions, bananas, cabbages, cauliflower, cucumbers , turnip and high fiber foods.

Sore mouth or throatA sore mouth, gums or

throat may be due to condition or medication.

Maybe caused by ill fitting teeth.

Certain foods such as spices and citrus foods can irritate.

Cold foods are more soothing than hot ones.

Cook foods until very soft and tender.

Decrease salt and spices.*Note foods to avoid pg 98.

NauseaNausea can seriously affect

nutritional intake and fluid balance.

May be related to physical condition, meds, chemo & radiation.

Some foods can ease nausea:Serve small mealsFoods that are dry and crispAvoid fatty and greasy foods.Avoid smells that irritate the

clientExplore a change in the

medication schedule.

VomitingVomiting may follow nausea.Make client comfortable and

safe.Do not offer food or fluid until

vomiting is under control.Once controlled try small

amount of clear fluids. Before advancing to a full liquid diet.

Report nausea and vomiting as soon as possible to avoid dehydration.

ConstipationThe inability to expel

fecal matter. Causes include physical condition, diet, meds or emotions.

You should be familiar with the clients regular routine.

Constipation can lead to pain, < appetite, fluid imbalance and poor med absorption.

Prevention and Treatment of Constipation

Prevention and Treatment of Constipation

DiarrheaProlong diarrhea can result

in dehydration, fluid imbalance, decreases appetite, change in physical activity and abdominal pain.

Causes; infection, food sensitivity, medication, chemo, radiation and emotional upset.

DiarrheaSigns and Symptoms

Change in mental state

< urine outputFeverDry mouth and

mucous membranesDry, wrinkled skin

(poor turgor)

Diarrhea - SolutionsDrink plenty of fluids.Eat food rich in sodium and potassium.

Sources?Eat low fiber foods.Avoid greasy foods.Avoid raw veggies and fruit.Eliminate spices.Limit caffeine.Limit milk if they have lactose intolerance.

Other sources of nutrition

One for the road…