Which dietary modification should a nurse recommend for a patient with a history of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea?

For a patient with a history of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea, recommending a bland, low-fiber diet is appropriate. This dietary modification is beneficial because it helps to reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea episodes. A low-fiber diet minimizes the amount of undigested material in the intestines, which can help slow down bowel movements and allow for better absorption of nutrients and fluids.

Bland foods are also easier to digest and less likely to irritate the gastrointestinal tract, which is particularly important for patients who may already be experiencing sensitivity due to chemotherapy. Such foods typically include items like white rice, bananas, applesauce, and toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet). These foods can provide adequate nutrition while being gentle on the digestive system, making them ideal for patients recovering from chemotherapy-related gastrointestinal issues.

Considering the other options, a bland, high-fiber diet could exacerbate diarrhea, as fiber can stimulate bowel movements. A strict liquid diet might not provide enough nutrients for recovery, and a diet high in dairy products could lead to lactose intolerance and worsen gastrointestinal symptoms in some patients undergoing cancer treatments. Therefore, a bland, low-fiber diet is the most effective recommendation in this scenario.