What type of diet should a patient with low WBC count follow?

Prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam with Mark Klimek Yellow Book Test. Access flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and detailed explanations to excel in your nursing exam.

A patient with a low white blood cell (WBC) count, often associated with a compromised immune system, should follow a low bacteria diet. This diet aims to minimize the risk of infections that can occur due to the body's reduced ability to fight off pathogens.

A low bacteria diet typically includes:

  • Well-cooked foods to ensure that harmful bacteria are killed.

  • Avoidance of raw or undercooked foods, including fruits and vegetables unless they can be properly cleaned or cooked.

  • Focus on foods that are less likely to harbor bacteria, such as canned goods, and properly handled meat and dairy products.

By adopting this diet, the patient can help reduce their exposure to potential infections, thus managing their health more effectively during a period when their body is less capable of handling such threats.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy