Which statement by a client scheduled for a sigmoid colon resection indicates a need for further teaching?

The statement indicating that the client will be able to eat anything they like after the surgery reflects a misunderstanding of how recovery from a sigmoid colon resection typically works. Following this type of surgery, patients generally need to adhere to a more cautious diet that may exclude certain foods for a time to allow the digestive system to recover and adapt.

After surgery, a soft diet is often recommended initially, gradually progressing to a regular diet as the patient heals. Certain foods that are high in fiber, fatty, or spicy may need to be limited to avoid complications such as diarrhea or bowel obstruction. Thus, the belief that they can return to a normal diet immediately indicates a gap in understanding that could lead to postoperative complications.

This underscores the importance of patient education regarding dietary restrictions and the gradual reintroduction of foods following a major surgical procedure.