A nurse is caring for a client who has AIDS. The client states. "My mouth is sore when I eat." Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?

Rationale: A. Salty or spicy foods can irritate oral lesions and increase pain. B. Using ice chips or cold foods helps numb oral mucosa and reduce pain caused by stomatitis or oral candidiasis, which are common in clients with AIDS. Cool, soft, bland foods are best tolerated. C. Hot foods can further irritate mucosal tissues and increase discomfort. D. Alcohol-based mouthwash causes dryness and irritation, worsening oral lesions. A nonalcoholic mouth rinse such as saline or sodium bicarbonate solution should be recommended.