Question

question 9
1 pts
the nurse is assisting a 79-year-old patient with information about diet and weight loss. the patient has a body mass index (bmi) of 31. how should the nurse instruct this patient?
\you are morbidly obese, and we would like to schedule you an appointment to speak with a bariatric specialist about surgery.
\you are considered obese and will need to consult with your doctor about a plan that includes exercises, not diet, to decrease weight.\
\your weight is within normal limits. continue maintaining with current lifestyle choices.\
\you are a little overweight. cut down on calories and increase your activity, and you should be fine.\

Explanation:

1. Analyze BMI categories: BMI 30 - 39.9 is obese (class 1 - 2), 40+ is morbidly obese. The patient’s BMI is 31 (obese, not morbidly obese), so option 1 is wrong.
2. Weight loss for obesity needs a combination of diet and exercise, not just exercise. So option 2 is wrong.
3. Normal BMI is 18.5 - 24.9; 31 is not normal, so option 3 is wrong.
4. BMI 31 means overweight/obese (but “a little overweight” is a simpler way to frame for an older patient). A plan of calorie reduction and increased activity is appropriate for gradual weight loss in an older adult. So this option is correct.

Answer:

"You are a little overweight. Cut down on calories and increase your activity, and you should be fine."