Which food choice should a nurse recommend to a client with hypertension for diet modifications?

For a client with hypertension, it's crucial to recommend foods that are low in sodium and conducive to heart health. Choosing skinless chicken breast aligns with these dietary needs as it is a lean source of protein that is relatively low in sodium compared to other meat options.

Chicken breast provides essential nutrients without the high levels of saturated fat often found in red meats or processed meats, making it a heart-healthy choice. Additionally, eliminating the skin reduces the fat content further, supporting overall cardiovascular health.

In contrast, options like fried fish and pork sausage are typically high in unhealthy fats, and the frying process adds additional sodium from the batter or cooking oil. A salad with oil dressing may also contain hidden sodium if a commercial dressing is used or if the dressing has high-fat content, making it less suitable as a first choice for someone managing hypertension.

Therefore, recommending the chicken breast promotes a balanced diet while effectively addressing dietary restrictions associated with hypertension.