A 52-year-old male client reports regularly eating red meat, drinking sugary beverages daily, and having a sedentary lifestyle. He states he wants to make lifestyle changes but finds it difficult to sustain them. He has a family history of heart disease and diabetes. Which initial nursing intervention is most appropriate?

Question: A 52-year-old male client reports regularly eating red meat, drinking sugary beverages daily, and having a sedentary lifestyle. He states he wants to make lifestyle changes but finds it difficult to sustain them. He has a family history of heart disease and diabetes. Which initial nursing intervention is most appropriate?

Answer options:

• Provide a detailed meal plan emphasizing fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
• Refer the client to a nutritionist, personal trainer, and smoking cessation program. ✅ Assess the client's readiness for change and identify small, achievable goals.
• Educate the client on the long-term health consequences of his current lifestyle choices.

Correct answer: Assess the client's readiness for change and identify small, achievable goals.

Explanation: Assessing the client's readiness for change and starting with small, achievable goals (e.g., walking 10 minutes a day, replacing one sugary drink with water) aligns with motivational interviewing principles and increases the likelihood of long-term adherence. Overwhelming the client with extensive changes or multiple referrals initially can be counterproductive if they are not ready.