A nurse is educating a patient with chronic kidney disease (CKD) about dietary restrictions. Which of the following nutrients should the patient be advised to limit?

Rationale: A. Vitamin C is incorrect because, while excessive supplementation can be harmful, CKD patients are not typically required to restrict dietary vitamin C in foods. Normal intake is usually safe and important for overall health. B. Fats is incorrect because fats are generally not restricted in CKD unless the patient has comorbid conditions like cardiovascular disease. Healthy fats are encouraged, and limiting fats is not a priority for kidney function management. C. Potassium is correct because CKD impairs the kidneys’ ability to excrete potassium. Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can lead to life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias. Patients with CKD should limit high-potassium foods such as bananas, oranges, tomatoes, potatoes, and certain leafy greens. Monitoring potassium intake is a critical part of CKD dietary management. D. Carbohydrates is incorrect because carbohydrate restriction is not universally necessary for CKD patients unless they also have diabetes. Carbohydrates are an important energy source and are not typically limited solely due to kidney disease.