A nurse is caring for a client who has polycystic kidney disease (PKD). The client is admited to the hospital for renal calculi and reports that their abdomen has been getting bigger. Which of the following statements by the nurse is the best explanation for the increase in abdominal girth?
"The kidney infection has caused narrowing of the ureters, and your abdomen has filled with fluid."
"The kidneys continue to enlarge due to the cysts growing, which increases the girth of your abdomen."
"The stones might descend into the ureters, blocking the flow of urine and causing an increase in the girth of your abdomen."
"The in?ammation in your kidneys damages the filtration system, which causes fluid retention in your abdomen."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: While kidney infections can cause swelling, they typically do not lead to a significant increase in abdominal girth unless associated with severe obstruction or advanced kidney disease.
Choice B reason: In PKD, the kidneys can become significantly enlarged due to the growth of numerous cysts, which
can indeed lead to an increase in abdominal girth.
Choice C reason: While stones can cause blockage and swelling, they would not typically result in a generalized increase in abdominal girth unless there is an associated infection or severe obstruction.
Choice D reason: Inflammation can lead to fluid retention, but in the context of PKD, it is the cysts' growth that primarily contributes to increased kidney size and abdominal girth.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dribbling of urine can indicate urinary retention, as it may suggest that the bladder is not emptying
completely during voiding.
Choice B reason: While the color of the urine can provide information about hydration status and other health issues, it is not a direct indicator of urinary retention.
Choice C reason: The voiding patern is an important assessment for urinary retention. Infrequent voiding or small amounts despite a full bladder can be signs of this condition.
Choice D reason: Proteinuria is not typically used as an assessment for urinary retention. It can indicate kidney damage or disease but does not directly relate to the bladder's ability to empty.
Choice E reason: Bladder distension can be observed and palpated in cases of urinary retention, as the bladder may become enlarged due to the accumulation of urine.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While a heart atack is a serious condition, it is not directly related to peritonitis. Peritonitis can lead to systemic infection, which may indirectly affect the heart, but it is not the primary concern in the immediate care of peritonitis.
Choice B reason: Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. However, it is not the most immediate threat when a client is diagnosed with peritonitis. The nurse should continue to monitor blood glucose levels as part of routine care.
Choice C reason: Respiratory failure can be a complication of peritonitis if the infection spreads and affects other systems. However, the primary concern with peritonitis is the potential for the infection to lead to sepsis.
Choice D reason: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can occur as a complication of peritonitis. It happens when the body's response to infection causes injury to its own tissues and organs. Monitoring for signs of sepsis is crucial because early intervention can be lifesaving.

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