Which of the following should the nurse include in discharge instructions for a client after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

After Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, it is crucial for clients to prioritize high-protein intake as part of their dietary regimen. This approach is essential for several reasons. First, a high-protein diet aids in the healing process following surgery; proteins are fundamental for tissue repair and recovery. Additionally, protein helps to preserve muscle mass, especially important after significant weight loss that typically follows this type of bariatric surgery.

Moreover, high-protein foods tend to be more satiating than carbohydrates or fats, which can help clients manage hunger and reduce the risk of overeating. After undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the stomach size is significantly reduced, which means that clients need to optimize their nutritional intake within limited portion sizes. Focusing on protein not only supports health and recovery but also contributes to maintaining long-term weight loss success.

In contrast, a high-carbohydrate diet may lead to rapid weight gain or nutritional deficiencies, and including fluids during meals can result in dumping syndrome, which is a common complication in patients who have had gastric bypass surgery. Limiting dietary protein to 50 grams per day would be inadequate for most patients post-surgery, as they generally need a higher intake to meet their nutritional requirements and support their new dietary guidelines.