The nurse asks the 12-hour postpartum client, who is breastfeeding her baby now, why she has not yet received a dinner tray. The client states that her mother is bringing curry and that she wonÔÇÖt be eating the hospital food tonight. Which response by the nurse is best?

Offering to order food later if the client changes her mind is the best response. Many clients have culturally based beliefs about food and beverages that should be consumed in the postpartum period. Unless contraindicated, nurses should support and encourage women to incorporate food preferences with cultural significance into their postpartum diet. Some breastfeeding infants are sensitive to certain flavors, seasonings, or foods, but, there is no evidence to support maternal food restrictions unless the infant shows a sensitivity. If there is a strong family history of a food allergy that causes anaphylaxis, such as a peanut allergy, these foods may be avoided. Many women would benefit from speaking to a dietician, but this client is not at any increased risk that would make a dietary consultation necessary. There are no food restrictions 12 hours after delivery unless there have been complications.