A client with chronic renal failure asks for more fluids but has strict restrictions. Which option is an appropriate compromise?

• A. A piece of hard candy
• B. A glass of juice
• C. A small water bottle
• D. A cup of tea

Answer: (A)

Relieving thirst without adding to fluid intake is the idea here. In chronic kidney disease with a fluid restriction, the goal is to prevent fluid overload while keeping the patient comfortable. A hard candy provides oral moisture and helps with a dry mouth through saliva stimulation, but it’s a solid item that does not significantly increase liquid volume. It satisfies the need to soothe thirst while staying within the daily fluid limit. The other options are liquids and would count toward the restricted fluid allowance, making them inappropriate as a compromise.