A client admited with heart failure requires careful monitoring of his fluid status. Which method will provide the nurse with the best indication of the client’s fluid status?
daily electrolyte monitoring
daily weights
output measurements
daily BUN and serum creatinine monitoring
The Correct Answer is B
Fluid retention is a common complication in heart failure, and monitoring the client's fluid status is crucial to manage the condition effectively. Daily weights are an essential component of monitoring fluid status and are the most sensitive and practical method to detect changes in the client's fluid status. Weight gain is a reliable indicator of fluid retention, and even small increases in weight can indicate the need for changes in the client's treatment plan.
Although electrolyte monitoring (option a), output measurements (option c), and daily BUN and serum creatinine monitoring (option d) can provide valuable information about the client's fluid status, they are not as sensitive or practical as daily weights. Electrolyte monitoring can help detect changes in fluid balance, but it does not provide a direct indication of fluid status. Output measurements can indicate fluid loss, but they do not provide an accurate assessment of fluid retention. BUN and serum creatinine monitoring can detect changes in renal function, but they are not specific to fluid status.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia, and diuretics are often used in the management of patients with this condition to help control fluid balance. However, diuretics can cause electrolyte imbalances, especially hypokalaemia (low potassium levels), which can lead to muscle cramps and other complications.
A Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a blood test that measures various electrolytes, glucose, and other important components. Among the options given, the most likely lab value to be abnormal in Patient MK's case is a low level of potassium (K+), which is consistent with her symptoms and diuretic use. Option d, K+ -
-
- mEq/L, is the correct option as it represents a low level of potassium, which is defined as a value less than 3.5 mEq/L.
Option a, Mg2 – 20 mEq/L, represents high magnesium levels, which are not typically associated with diuretic use or muscle cramps. Option b, Na+ - 123 mEq/L, represents low sodium levels, which are less likely to occur with diuretic use, and are typically associated with other conditions. Option c, Ca2 – 10.0 mg/dl, represents normal calcium levels and is not typically affected by diuretic use.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The use of an incentive spirometer is essential after surgery to prevent complications such as pneumonia and atelectasis. Atelectasis is the collapse of air sacs in the lungs, which can occur after surgery due to decreased respiratory effort and shallow breathing. An incentive spirometer helps the patient take deep breaths and increase their lung volume, preventing these complications.
Breathing rapidly to prevent pneumonia (option b) is not recommended as it can lead to hyperventilation and other respiratory complications.
Option c is incorrect because patient education is a crucial aspect of post-operative care, and the patient needs to be aware of the potential complications and how to prevent them.
The use of a chest tube (option d) is not usually required after hip surgery, and it is not a priority teaching for the patient.
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