A nurse is caring for a client who is undergoing peritoneal dialysis and notes that the dialysate outflow has become cloudy. Which of the following complications of this procedure should the nurse suspect?
Bleeding
Peritonitis
Poor dialysate flow
Fibrin clot formation
The Correct Answer is B
A. Bleeding: Blood in the dialysate typically causes a pink or red-tinged outflow, not cloudy fluid. While bleeding can occur as a complication of peritoneal dialysis, the appearance of cloudy dialysate is more indicative of infection rather than hemorrhage.
B. Peritonitis: Cloudy dialysate is a classic sign of peritonitis, a serious infection of the peritoneal cavity. It occurs when bacteria enter during the dialysis process, leading to inflammation and exudate in the fluid. Immediate recognition and reporting are essential for prompt treatment with antibiotics to prevent further complications.
C. Poor dialysate flow: Poor flow is indicated by slow or incomplete drainage of dialysate, which may result from catheter kinking, constipation, or adhesions. While it affects the effectiveness of dialysis, it does not cause cloudiness in the effluent and is unrelated to infection.
D. Fibrin clot formation: Fibrin in the dialysate can appear as strands or clumps, but it is less common and usually does not cause generalized cloudiness. Fibrin clots are typically managed by adding heparin to the dialysate, whereas cloudy effluent primarily signals infection requiring antimicrobial intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Determine the client's living situation: Assessing the client’s home environment is the first step in evaluating eligibility for home assistance. Understanding factors such as accessibility, caregiver support, and safety needs provides a foundation for planning appropriate interventions and resources tailored to the client’s circumstances.
B. Problem solve with the client: Problem-solving is an important part of care planning but should occur after the nurse has gathered essential information about the client’s living situation. Without this initial assessment, problem-solving may not address the client’s actual needs.
C. Offer community resources to the client: Providing information about resources is helpful but premature without first understanding the client’s living conditions and specific support requirements. This ensures recommendations are relevant and actionable.
D. Assist the client with decision-making: Supporting decision-making is crucial for client-centered care but comes after the nurse has assessed the client’s situation and presented appropriate options. Initial assessment informs safe and effective guidance.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A client who has a productive cough and an oral temperature of 36° C (96.8°F): A normal temperature and stable vital signs indicate that this client’s condition is not immediately life-threatening. Assessment is important but not the priority.
B. A client who reports tingling in the fingers following a thyroidectomy: Tingling in the fingers may indicate hypocalcemia from potential injury or removal of the parathyroid glands during thyroidectomy. This is an acute complication that can lead to tetany or cardiac dysrhythmias, making it the highest priority.
C. A client who is in a long leg cast and has +2 pedal pulses bilaterally: Adequate pedal pulses indicate good circulation. While monitoring for neurovascular compromise is necessary, this client is currently stable.
D. A client who has dark, foul-smelling urine and a urine output of 320 mL in the last 8 hr: Oliguria and infection risk are concerning and require follow-up, but these findings do not pose an immediate threat compared with potential hypocalcemia after thyroid surgery.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.