Which action would require immediate intervention by the nurse observing staff care?

• A. Providing water to a client on a clear liquid diet
• B. Giving orange juice to a client who has a clear liquid diet
• C. Serving gelatin for dessert with clear liquids
• D. Offering clear broth

Answer: (B)

A clear liquid diet requires beverages and foods that are transparent and free of pulp. Orange juice, especially with pulp, is cloudy and contains solids, so it does not meet the clear liquid requirement. Serving it would violate the diet order and undermine the purpose of the regimen, which is to rest the GI tract and maintain hydration with clear, easily digestible fluids. Water, clear broth, and gelatin are compatible with a clear liquid diet because they are transparent or easily digested without particulate matter.