A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has pneumonia.

Exhibits

For each potential nursing action, click to specify if the potential action is. anticipated or contraindicated for the client.

Choice A rationale:

Decreased skin turgor. Decreased skin turgor is a sign of dehydration rather than fluid overload. In fluid overload, the body retains excess fluid, leading to symptoms like crackles in the lungs, edema, and increased blood pressure. Decreased skin turgor is more characteristic of dehydration, where the body loses fluid.

Choice B rationale:

Decreased blood pressure. Decreased blood pressure is not typically a manifestation of fluid overload. Fluid overload often leads to increased blood pressure as the heart has to work harder to pump excess fluid throughout the body.

Choice C rationale:

Weight loss. Weight loss is not a manifestation of fluid overload. In fact, fluid overload may lead to weight gain due to the retention of excess fluid in the body.

Choice D rationale:

Crackles heard in the lungs. Crackles heard in the lungs are a common manifestation of fluid overload. When there is an excessive accumulation of fluid in the lungs, it can interfere with the exchange of gases and cause crackling sounds during breathing. This is a significant clinical finding that indicates the need for intervention and assessment of fluid balance.

Choice A rationale:

Inquiring about a family history of suicide is relevant but not the priority when a client is actively expressing suicidal ideations. Assessing the client's immediate risk and intent is more critical.

Choice B rationale:

Understanding the stresses in the client's life is important, but asking about a plan for self-harm takes precedence in assessing the client's immediate danger.

Choice C rationale:

This question directly addresses the client's intent and plan for self-harm. Identifying a plan is crucial in assessing the level of risk and determining the appropriate intervention.

Choice D rationale:

While having someone to discuss feelings with is important, it is not the primary concern when a client is expressing suicidal ideations. Assessing the client's immediate risk and plan for self-harm should come first.