Reference no: EM133909265

Question

Mrs. Valenti is an 80-year-old woman of Italian descent who lives in the community with her husband. She is an active woman who does her own housekeeping and cooking and is active in her church. Throughout her adult life, Mrs. Valenti has been about 10 to 15 pounds above her ideal weight. Over the past few years, her blood pressure and cholesterol levels have been elevated. In reviewing her diet, the nurse discovers that although she does eat fruits and vegetables daily, Mrs. Valenti consumes a diet that is high in fat and calories. When the nurse begins discussing diet modifications with her, Mrs. Valenti laughs and responds, "My husband and I have always eaten Italian food, and we don't want to change. What is the point of living longer if you're not enjoying life?"

1. How can the nurse influence a change in Mrs. Valenti's diet while respecting her preferences?

2. What plan of care could be developed to address Mrs. Valenti's dietary issues?