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 B reason: Arranging diet schedule around three regular meals a day is not a sufficient point for disease and symptom management for a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a condition that affects the body's ability to produce or use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels. Eating three regular meals a day may not be enough to control blood glucose levels and prevent complications such as hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. The nurse should teach the client to follow a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and to eat smaller portions more frequently throughout the day.

Choice C reason: Using garlic, herbs, and spices will improve the flavor of food is not a specific point for disease and symptom management for a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Garlic, herbs, and spices are natural ingredients that can enhance the taste and aroma of food, but they do not have a direct impact on blood glucose levels or diabetes complications. The nurse should teach the client to limit the intake of salt, sugar, and saturated fats, and to choose foods that are low in glycemic index and high in antioxidants.

Choice D reason: Inspecting feet every month for ingrown nails, cuts, and calluses is not a frequent enough point for disease and symptom management for a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus can cause damage to the blood vessels and nerves in the feet, leading to reduced sensation, poor circulation, infection, ulceration, and amputation. The nurse should teach the client to inspect feet every day for any signs of injury or infection, and to wash, dry, moisturize, and protect them properly. The nurse should also advise the client to wear comfortable shoes and socks, avoid walking barefoot, and seek medical attention for any foot problems.

Choice B is correct because monitoring abdominal girth is an important intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. Cirrhosis of the liver can cause portal hypertension, which is an increased pressure in the portal vein that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. Portal hypertension can lead to ascites, which is an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. The nurse should measure and record the abdominal girth daily and report any significant changes.

Choice C is correct because reporting serum albumin and globulin levels is an important intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. Cirrhosis of the liver can impair the synthesis of proteins, such as albumin and globulin, which are essential for maintaining fluid balance, immune function, and blood clotting. The nurse should monitor and report the serum albumin and globulin levels and administer supplements or transfusions as prescribed.

Choice D is correct because noting signs of bleeding and edema is an important intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. Cirrhosis of the liver can cause coagulopathy, which is a disorder of blood clotting, due to reduced production of clotting factors and increased consumption of platelets. Coagulopathy can lead to bleeding from various sites, such as the gums, nose, esophagus, stomach, or rectum. The nurse should observe and report any signs of bleeding and apply pressure or bandages as needed. Cirrhosis of the liver can also cause hypoalbuminemia, which is a low level of albumin in the blood, due to decreased synthesis or increased loss of albumin. Hypoalbuminemia can lead to edema, which is swelling caused by fluid retention in the tissues. The nurse should assess and report any signs of edema and elevate the affected limbs or apply compression stockings as indicated.

Choice E is correct because limiting fluid intake to 1500 mL daily is an important intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. Fluid restriction can help prevent or reduce ascites and edema by decreasing the fluid load on the circulatory system and the kidneys. The nurse should measure and record the fluid intake and output and educate the client on how to limit their fluid intake.

Choice A is incorrect because providing a diet low in phosphorus is not a specific intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. A diet low in phosphorus may be indicated for clients with chronic kidney disease or hyperphosphatemia, but not for clients with cirrhosis of the liver. The nurse should provide a diet that is high in calories, carbohydrates, and protein, but low in sodium, fat, and alcohol for clients with cirrhosis of the liver.