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A nurse is caring for a client in the gastroenterology unit.

Exhibits
Select the key indicators of improvement when evaluating the effectiveness of paracentesis in clients with cirrhosis

A.

Absence of respiratory distress

B.

Stable vital signs

C.

Reduced ascitic fluid volume

D.

Decreased abdominal pressure

E.

Improved breathing

F.

Relief of abdominal discomfort

Answer and Explanation

Correct Answer : D,E,F

Rationale:

  • Improved breathing indicates that the removal of ascitic fluid has relieved diaphragmatic pressure, allowing better lung expansion.
  • Decreased abdominal pressure demonstrates that fluid removal has reduced intra-abdominal tension, improving mobility and comfort.
  • Relief of abdominal discomfort is a primary goal of paracentesis, as it enhances quality of life and reduces pain caused by fluid accumulation.
  • Stable vital signs and absence of respiratory distress are important for monitoring safety but are not direct measures of the procedure’s effectiveness.
  • Reduced ascitic fluid volume is the mechanism of action of paracentesis, while the client’s symptomatic relief is the best indicator of clinical success.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Rationale:
A. A CBC may show leukocytosis but is not diagnostic for pancreatitis.
B. AST/ALT may be elevated if biliary obstruction is present, but they are not specific for pancreatitis.
C. Blood glucose may rise in pancreatitis due to impaired insulin release, but it is not diagnostic.
D. Amylase and lipase levels are the primary diagnostic lab tests for acute pancreatitis, with lipase being more specific and remaining elevated longer.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Rationale:

A. Seizures are more commonly associated with severe electrolyte imbalances like hyponatremia, not mild hypokalemia.

B. Neurogenic shock is related to spinal cord injury, not potassium imbalance.

C. Hypokalemia (potassium 3.3 mEq/L; normal 3.5–5.0 mEq/L) increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmias, palpitations, and potentially life-threatening cardiac complications, especially in clients taking diuretics like furosemide.

D. Low potassium does not directly cause hypoglycemia.

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