A client with heart failure is being discharged with a 2,000-mg daily sodium limit. For each food item, drag it to the category that reflects the most appropriate clinical guidance based on the provided context.

Quick answer
Canned soup, deli sandwich, and frozen pizza are high-sodium items that should be limited or avoided. Fresh chicken breast, plain oatmeal, and unsalted almonds are lower-sodium alternatives. Canned vegetables and cottage cheese are moderate-sodium items that can be included with portion control.

Why this is correct
The daily sodium limit is 2,000 mg. High-sodium foods can provide 500-1,000 mg or more per serving, leaving little room for other meals. Lower-sodium foods provide less than 140 mg per serving. Moderate-sodium foods provide 140-400 mg per serving and can be included if the total daily intake is monitored.

Clinical picture
In heart failure, excess sodium causes fluid retention, worsening symptoms. Teaching should focus on reading labels, choosing fresh or unseasoned foods, and controlling portions of moderate-sodium items.

Memory hook
High sodium: >400 mg per serving; moderate: 140-400 mg; low: <140 mg. Daily limit 2,000 mg.

NCLEX decision rule
Classify foods by sodium content per serving and consider how they fit into the total daily limit.

Why the alternatives are wrong
Canned vegetables and cottage cheese are not low sodium, but they can be included with portion control. They are not as high as canned soup or deli meat.