While reviewing nursing documentation on dietary intake for a 7-year-old child of Asian descent, the nurse notes that he consistently refuses to eat the food on

While reviewing nursing documentation on dietary intake for a 7-year-old child of Asian descent, the nurse notes that he consistently refuses to eat the food on his tray. Which assumption is most likely accurate?

a.
He is a picky eater.
b.
He needs less food because he is on bed rest.
c.
He may have culturally related food preferences.
d.
He is probably eating between meals and spoiling his appetite.

ANS: C

When cultural differences are noted, food preferences should always be obtained. A child will often not eat unfamiliar foods. Although the child may be a picky eater, the key point is that he is from a different culture. The foods he is being served may seem strange to him. Nutrition plays an important role in healing. Although the child expends less energy while on bed rest, he has increased needs for good nutrition. Although it should be determined whether the child is eating food the family has brought from home, it is more important to determine his food preferences.