Which action should a nurse take to assist a client with depression who is anorexic in meeting their nutritional needs?

Offering high-calorie and high-protein foods and fluids frequently throughout the day is an effective strategy for assisting a client with depression who is anorexic in meeting their nutritional needs. This approach targets the dual challenges of appetite suppression and nutritional deficiency that commonly occur in clients struggling with depression. High-calorie and high-protein foods are essential for providing the necessary energy and nutrients that the client may not be consuming in adequate amounts due to their anorexia.

Frequent offerings can help in several ways: they can encourage the client to eat small, manageable portions, reducing the pressure of having to face large meals that may feel overwhelming. This method also promotes a more relaxed eating pattern, allowing the client to consume nutrients without the stress that can accompany mealtime for someone with an eating disorder and mood disorder.

Furthermore, providing these options can stimulate the client's interest in food by emphasizing quantity and quality, which is crucial for recovery. It’s important to create a supportive environment in which the client feels understood and cared for, and offering a variety of appealing, nutritious options can foster a more positive relationship with food.

In contrast, the other options may not sufficiently address the specific needs of a client facing the dual challenges of depression and anorexia, where individualized and compassionate approaches are