A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has ascites due to cirrhosis. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend to include in the plan?
Restrict the client's sodium intake to 3 g per day.
Position the client supine with legs elevated.
Measure the client's abdominal girth daily.
Keep the client's daily protein intake below 0.8 g/kg.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Sodium restriction is a key component in the management of ascites, as it helps to reduce fluid retention. However, the standard recommendation for sodium intake in ascites management is typically lower than 3 grams per day. The guideline is often around 2 grams or even less to effectively manage ascites. Thus, while the concept is correct, the specific amount in this option is slightly higher than usually recommended.
B. This is not generally recommended for clients with ascites. Lying flat can increase discomfort and pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing more difficult. Instead, positioning the client in a semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position can help alleviate respiratory distress by reducing pressure on the diaphragm.
C. This is a crucial intervention. Measuring abdominal girth daily provides a reliable way to monitor changes in the size of the abdomen, which reflects changes in the amount of ascitic fluid. It helps in assessing the effectiveness of treatment and detecting any rapid accumulation of fluid that might require intervention.
D. While protein restriction was traditionally recommended to prevent hepatic encephalopathy, more recent guidelines suggest that moderate protein intake should be maintained unless the client has severe hepatic encephalopathy. Adequate protein intake is necessary to prevent muscle wasting and support liver function, and it should generally be individualized based on the client’s condition.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Effective communication with the client is crucial to understand their desires and provide appropriate care. When faced with a language barrier, it is important to use professional interpreter services to ensure accurate and clear communication. By requesting an interpreter, the nurse can obtain a clear understanding of the client's wishes and concerns regarding leaving AMA.
Without clear communication with the client, it is not appropriate to assume that the partner can make decisions on their behalf or sign an AMA form. It is important to directly ascertain the client's wishes.
Discharging the client without understanding their wishes and providing appropriate education or interventions could potentially put the client at risk. It is necessary to have a clear understanding of the client's desires before taking any action.
Asking the partner to reiterate the consequences of leaving AMA to the client: While educating the client and their partner about the consequences of leaving AMA is important, it is not sufficient in this situation. The nurse needs to directly communicate with the client to understand their wishes and concerns.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This issue indicates a potential difficulty with fine motor skills and may impact the client's ability to feed themselves independently.
It is important for the interprofessional team, including occupational therapy and/or physical therapy, to be aware of this issue and collaborate on appropriate interventions to improve the client's functional abilities and promote independence in activities of daily living (ADLs).
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