What should a technician first determine for a woman who does not drink milk?

When assessing a woman who does not drink milk, the first step a technician should take is to determine whether she is lactose intolerant. This is significant because lactose intolerance can lead to the avoidance of milk and dairy products due to discomfort from symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming lactose-containing foods. Understanding her reason for avoidance helps in developing an appropriate dietary plan that ensures she receives adequate calcium and other nutrients typically found in dairy.

After identifying whether she is lactose intolerant, the technician can explore other dietary sources of calcium and possible alternatives. If she avoids milk due to intolerance, she might not be getting enough calcium, which could then prompt the technician to check if she consumes calcium-rich foods or supplements. By first determining lactose intolerance, the technician can tailor their advice and recommendations more effectively to the individual’s needs.