A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has significant issues with ascites related to end-stage liver disease. Which of the following precautions is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching?
"An increased weight in the abdomen can lead to problems with getting comfortable when lying down; therefore, have extra pillows in bed."
"Due to the increased weight in the abdomen, it is advised that you do not wear undergarments as they may not fit properly."
"Due to the increased abdominal weight, take your time with walking as your balance might be affected and could cause a fall."
"The increased weight in your abdomen will mean that you can no longer exercise due to the strain on your heart."
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
While having extra pillows can help with comfort, it does not address the primary safety concern associated with ascites, which is the risk of falls due to altered center of gravity and balance.
Choice B rationale
The advice about undergarments is not a safety precaution but rather a comfort consideration. It is less critical than ensuring the client's safety while ambulating.
Choice C rationale
This is the correct choice because it directly addresses a significant safety risk for the client. Ascites can greatly affect balance, increasing the risk of falls, which can lead to serious injury, especially in older adults.
Choice D rationale
While exercise is important, this statement is overly restrictive and not accurate. Clients with ascites can often still engage in exercise, albeit modified, to accommodate their condition and under medical supervision.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Diarrhea is a common symptom in both ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease, often presenting with urgency and frequency.
Choice B rationale
Lesions that penetrate the intestine are more characteristic of Crohn's disease, which can affect any layer of the intestinal wall and any part of the gastrointestinal tract.
Choice C rationale
Strictures are more common in Crohn's disease due to its transmural inflammatory nature, which can lead to fibrosis and narrowing of the intestines¹.
Choice D rationale
UC is restricted to the colon and often involves the rectum, but Crohn's disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus and is not restricted to the rectum¹.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
An increasing hemoglobin level does not indicate the resolution of acute pancreatitis. Hemoglobin levels can fluctuate due to various factors, including hydration status and blood loss, but are not directly related to the resolution of pancreatitis.
Choice B rationale
During an episode of acute pancreatitis, serum concentrations of amylase and lipase rise significantly, often within hours of pancreatic injury. These elevated enzyme levels are key components in diagnosing the condition. As the inflammation subsides and the pancreas begins to heal, the levels of these enzymes typically decrease, returning to normal ranges. Therefore, a declining serum amylase level suggests that the acute inflammatory process is resolving.
Choice C rationale
Serum bilirubin levels are indicative of liver function and bile metabolism. Elevated bilirubin may occur if pancreatitis leads to bile duct obstruction or liver involvement. However, a decrease in bilirubin levels addresses biliary system recovery rather than directly reflecting pancreatic inflammation resolution.
Choice D rationale
An increasing serum alkaline phosphatase level is generally associated with bile duct obstruction or bone disease and does not indicate the resolution of acute pancreatitis. This enzyme is found in several tissues throughout the body, including the liver and bones.
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