A nurse is caring for a client who has end-stage liver disease and is undergoing a paracentesis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to evaluate the effectiveness of the procedure?

The correct answer is choice C. Perform the procedure prior to meals.

This is because postural drainage involves positioning the child in different ways to help drain the mucus from the lungs.

If the child has a full stomach, this can cause nausea, vomiting, or aspiration. Therefore, the nurse should perform the procedure before meals or at least 1 hour after meals.

Choice A is wrong because the nurse should not hold the hand flat to perform percussions on the child.

Percussions are rhythmic clapping on the chest wall to loosen the mucus. The nurse should use a cupped hand to create a small air pocket that enhances the vibrations and prevents bruising.

Choice B is wrong because the nurse should not perform the procedure twice a day. The recommended frequency of postural drainage is 3 to 4 times a day, or more if needed, depending on the child’s condition and tolerance.

Choice D is wrong because the nurse should not administer a bronchodilator after the procedure.

A bronchodilator is a medication that relaxes and widens the airways, making it easier to breathe. The nurse should administer a bronchodilator before the procedure to enhance the effectiveness of postural drainage.

The correct answer is choicea, b, e.

Choice A rationale:A recent weight gain of 1.8 kg (4 lb) with a BMI of 18.9 may indicate potential nutritional issues or underlying health problems that require further investigation.

Choice B rationale:Having an adult child prepare meals could suggest the client may have difficulties with meal preparation, possibly due to physical or cognitive limitations.

Choice C rationale:Clean and weather-appropriate clothing indicates the client is managing their personal hygiene and dressing appropriately, which does not typically prompt further assessment.

Choice D rationale:Receiving regular baths from a home care aide suggests the client has support for personal hygiene, which is generally a positive indicator and does not necessitate further assessment.

Choice E rationale:Frequent toothaches and lack of dental care can indicate poor oral health, which can have significant implications for overall health and nutrition, warranting a more detailed assessment.

Choice F rationale:Making eye contact and smiling while speaking generally indicates good social interaction skills and mental well-being, which does not typically prompt further assessment.