Answer :
Final answer:
For a 45-year-old patient weighing 186 lb, the nurse should recommend a weight loss goal of 4-8 pounds over 4 weeks, aligning with the recommended pace of 1-2 pounds per week.
Explanation:
In developing a weight reduction program for a 45-year-old patient who weighs 186 lb, the nurse should encourage the patient to set a weight loss goal of 1-2 pounds per week. This is based on the general recommendation for slow and steady weight-loss goals, which is usually 1 to 2 pounds per week to ensure long-term success and health sustainability. Therefore, over a 4-week period, a reasonable goal would be a loss of 4-8 pounds.
Considering safe and sustainable weight loss, the nurse would likely advise the patient to aim for a realistic and achievable goal. Rapid weight loss can be detrimental to health. A generally recommended guideline is to aim for 1-2 pounds per week. In the context of a 4-week period, the nurse would advocate for a goal within the range of 4-8 pounds. Therefore, the most appropriate answer is C) 4-8 pounds.
This approach ensures that weight loss is gradual, promoting lifestyle changes rather than extreme measures, and is more likely to lead to long-term success and overall well-being.
