A patient in whom cancer has been newly diagnosed is about to begin intense chemotherapy.She tells you that the only good thing about this diagnosis is that she will now be able to lose weight without even trying.The most appropriate nursing response would be to

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Patients tolerate chemotherapy better when they are able to maintain good nutritional status.Even though weight loss may seem like a positive side effect,it could have a negative effect if nutrient stores are depleted.Minimizing loss of lean body mass and maximizing nutrient stores are more important than attaining ideal body weight in patients with cancer.Making good food choices is important,but eating enough food to maintain lean body mass stores is more important.

A Patient in Whom Cancer Has Been Newly Diagnosed Is