Which food should the nurse encourage a patient on a postoperative full liquid diet to eat?

• A. Potato soup
• B. Lentils
• C. Tea
• D. Banana

Answer: (A)

A full liquid diet includes liquids and smooth, pourable foods that are easy to swallow and provide some calories and nutrients without chewing. Potato soup fits this requirement when it’s prepared smooth and free of chunks, offering fluids along with nourishment to support healing. Lentils contain solid pieces and fiber, making them unsuitable for a full liquid diet. Tea, while a clear liquid, lacks calories and protein, so it doesn’t meet the nutritional needs of a full liquid plan. A banana is a solid fruit; unless thoroughly puréed to a completely smooth texture, it wouldn’t be considered part of a full liquid diet. So potato soup is the best choice.