A client who is receiving radiation treatment for laryngeal cancer has developed xerostomia and mucositis. The nurse determines the client has an imbalanced nutritional intake and is consuming less than body requirements. Which factor is the most likely cause for this problem?

A. Nausea can affect nutritional intake but is less directly related to the specific symptoms of xerostomia and mucositis. B. Fatigue may contribute to decreased food intake but is not the primary issue in this context. C. Altered taste sensation can affect appetite but is often secondary to pain when eating. D. Pain when eating is the most significant factor affecting the client’s ability to consume adequate nutrition, as it directly discourages eating.