Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which diet is most appropriate for a patient with ulcerative colitis?

1. A low-fat diet

2. A low-residue diet

3. A high-calorie diet

4. A high-fiber diet

The correct answer is: A low-residue diet

For a patient with ulcerative colitis, a low-residue diet is the most appropriate choice. This type of diet helps to reduce the frequency and volume of bowel movements by limiting the intake of fiber and certain foods that are harder to digest. Consequently, it can help minimize gastrointestinal irritation and inflammation, which is critical during flare-ups of ulcerative colitis. Patients often experience diarrhea and abdominal pain, and the low-residue diet avoids high-fiber foods such as nuts, seeds, and whole grains that could exacerbate these symptoms by leaving more undigested material in the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, it is easier for the body to absorb nutrients while on a low-residue diet, which is beneficial for patients who may have difficulty maintaining adequate nutrition due to the disease. Other dietary options listed would not provide the same level of benefit for managing ulcerative colitis. A low-fat diet, while healthy overall, does not specifically address the inflammatory aspect of the condition or help manage bowel movement frequency. A high-calorie diet may be necessary for patients with malnutrition, but it might not be as effective in addressing inflammation or bowel regularity. A high-fiber diet is generally beneficial for digestive health in many situations, but it can irritate the