Which statement demonstrates understanding of dietary needs for a patient with chronic kidney disease?

The statement that demonstrates understanding of dietary needs for a patient with chronic kidney disease is the focus on monitoring weight regularly. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often experience fluid retention, which can lead to fluctuating weight. Regularly monitoring weight is essential for detecting changes in fluid balance, which can indicate worsening kidney function or the need to adjust diet and medications.

Weight monitoring provides valuable feedback on the effectiveness of dietary and fluid intake management. In CKD, fluid restrictions may be necessary to prevent complications such as hypertension and heart failure. Weight changes can also reflect dietary adherence, especially concerning protein and sodium intake, which are critical components of the dietary management plan for CKD.

In contrast, increasing potassium intake or avoiding blood pressure checks does not align with good practices for managing CKD. CKD often leads to impaired potassium excretion, making it crucial for patients to limit their potassium intake rather than increase it. Additionally, regular blood pressure monitoring is essential for managing CKD, as hypertension can worsen the condition. Reducing protein intake is sometimes recommended, but it may not be universally advised for all patients, depending on the stage of CKD and individual nutritional needs. Regular weight monitoring stands out as a proactive approach to managing health in these patients.