The nurse is caring for a patient with heart failure.The patient has chronic fluid volume excess secondary to ineffective pumping action of the heart.When teaching this patient about fluid and electrolyte balance,which diet is most important for the nurse to explain?

A) High calcium
B) Low sodium
C) Low potassium
D) High magnesium

Reducing sodium intake helps promote fluid balance and prevent fluid overload because sodium intake increases fluid retention.Before teaching a patient about consuming a high-calcium diet,more information would be needed to determine the patient's calcium intake.Although a high potassium intake may be needed if the patient is taking diuretics that cause potassium loss,more information would be needed to determine this; it is unlikely a low-potassium diet would be of benefit.Magnesium deficiency is rare; low levels may be found in individuals who have a high alcohol intake.It is unlikely this patient needs added magnesium.