Appearances count! Presenting food in an attractive fashion goes a long way to “excite” the appetite.    Colorful napkins and placemats, or a flower in a vase can make a difference.  Soft music on the radio and an eating area free from odors can provide an “appetizing” atmosphere.  If possible, try serving a meal outside or by a window. Nausea & Vomiting If your clients have trouble with nausea, vomiting and/or a decreased appetite: · Report the problem to your supervisor!  There are a number of medications that can be used to treat nausea and vomiting.  If one kind of medication isn’t working for your client, there may be a different one that the doctor can prescribe.     · Encourage your client to eat high protein and/or high calorie foods when able.  Eggs, milkshakes and supplements like Ensure are examples. · Offer frequent small snacks—during the time of day the clients feel their best.  Keep non- perishable snacks at the bedside– this is a time when “crackers in bed” are OK! · Some foods that may be tolerated include: · Mashed potatoes, rice and noodles · Clear broths, light soups · Cream of wheat, oatmeal · Angel food cake · Puddings, custard, and milkshakes · Yogurt · Applesauce · Bananas   · Crackers or pretzels Being treated for cancer is stressful for the body.   Treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can affect the fast growing cells of the digestive tract.  Some clients may lose their taste for food, have nausea and vomiting, or develop diarrhea.   Depression and fatigue can also interfere with proper nutrition.  (See pg 11-12.) For your clients with cancer, “good  nutrition” means more than just a balanced diet.  The focus is on building and keeping up strength.  Of course if the client has restrictions due to other health problems, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, these must be taken into account when planning a diet. There may be days when clients do not want to eat at all—pushing or nagging them usually won’t help.  Just encourage fluids and if the problem persists , inform your supervisor.  Six to eight glasses of water a day is a good goal. Mouth problems can occur.  Mouth sores and other irritations need to be checked by a doctor.   Soft, room temperature foods that are not acidic are usually best.  Milkshakes and “instant breakfasts” may be soothing.  Good oral care after meals and throughout the day is important. Cancer & Nutrition THE INSERVICE CLUB FOR NURSING ASSISTANTS PAGE 9      © 2000 In the Know, Inc.                      Fortified Milk This recipe boosts the calories and protein of milk.     · 1 Quart whole milk · 1 Cup non-fat instant dry milk Pour  the quart of milk in a bowl and whisk in the dry milk.  Refrigerate.  Use as you would regular milk (such as in  macaroni & cheese, pudding, mashed potatoes, cocoa and cream sauces.)