A client with cirrhosis of the liver reports a 5 lb (2.3 kg) weight gain within the last week during a physical assessment. Which assessment finding correlates with the client's report?

Choice A reason: Before administering IV fluids containing potassium chloride, it is crucial to ensure that the client has adequate urinary output, typically between 30 to 60 mL/hr. This indicates good kidney function, which is necessary for the excretion of potassium to prevent hyperkalemia, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Choice B reason: While magnesium levels can affect potassium levels, they are not the most critical assessment before potassium infusion. However, it is important to monitor magnesium levels as part of the overall electrolyte balance, especially in diabetic ketoacidosis.

Choice C reason: The size of the IV catheter is important for administration purposes, but it is not the most critical assessment data before starting potassium infusion. The catheter size affects the flow rate and comfort during infusion but does not impact the decision to start the infusion.

Choice D reason: Serum glucose level is a vital parameter to monitor in diabetic ketoacidosis, but it is not the most critical assessment before starting potassium infusion. The primary concern with potassium infusion is kidney function, as assessed by urinary output.

Choice A reason: Placing the child on a continuous cardiopulmonary monitor is a standard post-operative order for monitoring the child’s heart and lung function after cardiac catheterization.
Choice B reason: Checking pedal pulses every 4 hours is important to ensure that there is adequate blood flow to the extremities, which can be compromised after cardiac procedures.
Choice C reason: Point of care blood glucose testing every 6 hours may not be necessary unless the child has a history of diabetes or there was a specific concern during the procedure. This order should be clarified with the physician.
Choice D reason: Admitting the child to the pediatric floor for observation is a standard procedure to monitor for any complications following cardiac catheterization.
Choice E reason: Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours is a typical post-operative order to ensure the child’s stability after the procedure.
Choice F reason: Checking the dressing every 15 minutes for 1 hour and then every hour for 24 hours is a standard order to monitor for bleeding or other complications at the catheterization site.
Choice G reason: The order for NPO status might need to be questioned depending on the time expected before the child can eat or drink again, especially considering the child’s age and the need for hydration and nutrition.
Choice H reason: Administering Lactated Ringers IV at 66 mL/hr while NPO is a standard order to maintain hydration while the child cannot take anything by mouth.