The family member of a 73-year-old patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)is concerned about the patient's recent weight loss.When questioned by the nurse,the patient denies any change in diet or activity,but admits to losing 10 lb in the past 6 weeks.What is the nurse's best response to the family member's concern?
A) "Maybe the patient has a higher metabolic rate than you."
B) "It doesn't seem fair that some people can lose weight so easily."
C) "This disease affects the respiratory system and causes the body to burn more calories to supply the energy to breathe."
D) "You need to discuss this with the health care provider so testing can be ordered for tuberculosis."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A patient with chronic lung disease usually requires a diet higher in calories because of the increased work of breathing.Inadequate nutrition occurs when nutritional intake does not meet nutritional needs.Without essential nutrients,a patient may experience respiratory muscle wasting,resulting in decreased muscle strength and respiratory excursion.One symptom of tuberculosis is rapid weight loss,which is not appropriate based on the question.The effort of breathing,not metabolic rate,is the reason for the weight loss.Saying that it doesn't seem fair does not address the family member's concern.

The Family Member of a 73-Year-Old Patient with Chronic Obstructive