A nurse is planning care for a client who has viral hepatitis manifesting symptoms of fever, malaise, and diarrhea. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Choice A reason: A high carbohydrate diet is appropriate for viral hepatitis, as it provides energy to support liver recovery, sparing protein for tissue repair. Carbohydrates reduce glycogen depletion, supporting hepatocytes’ metabolic needs during viral inflammation, improving malaise and aiding recovery without taxing the liver. Choice B reason: Including only high protein snacks is inappropriate, as excessive protein can strain the liver in viral hepatitis, increasing ammonia production and risking encephalopathy. A balanced diet with moderate protein is preferred, making this choice incorrect for supporting liver function. Choice C reason: Administering acetaminophen for pain is risky in viral hepatitis, as the liver’s impaired metabolism increases toxicity risk, potentially causing hepatotoxicity. Safer analgesics or non-pharmacologic measures are preferred to manage discomfort, making this an inappropriate intervention for this condition. Choice D reason: Encouraging three large meals daily may overwhelm the liver’s capacity in viral hepatitis, exacerbating nausea and diarrhea. Smaller, frequent, high-carbohydrate meals are better tolerated, supporting energy needs without straining digestion, making this choice less effective for symptom management.