A client is receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis since the arteriovenous (AV) graft in the right arm is no longer available for use for hemodialysis. The client has lost weight, has increasing peripheral edema, and has a serum albumin level of 1.5 g/dL (15 g/L). Which intervention is the priority for the nurse to implement?

Serum Albumin Reference Range: 3.5 to 5.5 g/dL (35 to 55 g/L)

Choice A reason: Marking an outline of the "olive-shaped" mass in the right epigastric area is not a priority nursing action. The mass is caused by hypertrophy of the pyloric sphincter, which obstructs gastric emptying and causes projectile vomiting. The mass may not be palpable in all cases.

Choice B reason: Instructing parents regarding care of the incisional area is a post-operative nursing action, not a pre-operative one. The parents will need to learn how to keep the incision clean and dry, monitor for signs of infection, and administer pain medication as prescribed.

Choice C reason: Monitoring amount of intake and infant's response to feedings is important, but not the highest priority. The infant may have difficulty feeding due to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Choice A: Avoid salt substitutes. This client needs additional education, as salt substitutes may contain potassium, which can increase the risk of hyperkalemia in clients with coronary artery disease. The nurse should teach the client to use herbs, spices, or lemon juice to flavor food instead of salt or salt substitutes.

Choice B: Consume canned vegetables. This client needs additional education, as canned vegetables may contain sodium, which can increase the blood pressure and worsen coronary artery disease. The nurse should teach the client to choose fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned ones.

Choice C: Include oatmeal for breakfast. This client does not need additional education, as oatmeal is a good source of soluble fiber, which can lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. The nurse should praise the client for this healthy choice.

Choice D: Identify foods with saturated fats. This client does not need additional education, as identifying foods with saturated fats is an important step to avoid them. Saturated fats can raise cholesterol and increase the risk of coronary artery disease. The nurse should teach the client to limit saturated fats to less than 10% of total calories per day.

Choice E: Walk 30 minutes per day. This client does not need additional education, as walking 30 minutes per day is a recommended physical activity for clients with coronary artery disease. Physical activity can improve blood circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress. The nurse should encourage the client to walk at a moderate pace and consult with the healthcare provider before starting any exercise program.

Choice F: Keep a food diary. This client does not need additional education, as keeping a food diary is a helpful tool to monitor dietary intake and identify areas for improvement. The nurse should teach the client to record the type, amount, and time of food consumed, as well as any symptoms or feelings associated with eating.