Which instruction should the nurse give a client with viral hepatitis to provide adequate nutrition?

• A. Increase intake of fluids, including juices.
• B. Select foods high in fat.
• C. Eat less often, preferably only three large meals daily.
• D. Eat a good supper when anorexia is not as severe.

Answer: (B)

Maintaining adequate hydration is essential for a client with viral hepatitis because fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and fluid losses can quickly lead to dehydration and poor nutrient delivery to tissues. Encouraging increased fluids, including juices, helps restore fluid balance and supports overall energy intake by making it easier to meet nutritional needs, especially when appetite is limited.

Fatty foods are harder to digest when the liver is inflamed and bile flow may be impaired, so choosing high-fat foods can worsen fullness, nausea, and discomfort and hinder adequate intake. Eating only three large meals can be difficult when anorexia is present, whereas small, more frequent meals are usually better tolerated and help maintain calories and protein. Relying on a good supper when appetite is variable misses opportunities to spread intake and support energy and nutrient needs throughout the day.

So, prioritizing increased fluid intake provides a practical, tolerable foundation for nutrition during hepatitis, supporting hydration and easier overall intake.