Which client is least likely to require parenteral nutrition?

Parenteral nutrition is typically indicated for patients who are unable to meet their nutritional needs through enteral routes due to conditions that impair digestion or absorption. The client who has undergone repair of a hiatal hernia is the least likely to require parenteral nutrition because, unless there are specific complications related to the surgery that impede intake, this procedure does not usually lead to a sustained inability to eat or absorb nutrients. Most patients can resume oral intake relatively soon after such a surgical repair.

In contrast, clients with severe burns require extensive nutritional support to promote healing, making parenteral nutrition a common necessity. Similarly, clients with pancreatic cancer often experience significant weight loss and nutritional deficiencies due to the disease and its treatment, commonly necessitating parenteral nutrition. For clients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while nutrition plays an important role in overall health, they may not require parenteral nutrition unless complications or coexisting conditions lead to severe malnutrition or inability to eat. In summary, the context of the surgical procedure associated with a hiatal hernia makes this client the least likely to need parenteral nutrition compared to the others presented.