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 B
Explanation
All of the listed actions can be part of evaluating the effectiveness of a performance improvement program, but identifying data collection methods is the most specific to evaluating the outcomes of the program.
Therefore, the nurse should identify data collection methods to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Reviewing the facility's policy and procedure manual, defining the problem, and performing chart audits are all important steps in the performance improvement process, but they do not specifically address the evaluation of the program's effectiveness.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
"I should discuss this document with my family after I sign it"
Advance directives are legal documents that allow an individual to specify the type of medical care they want to receive in case they become unable to make their own decisions. It is important for the client to discuss their wishes with their family members or loved ones so that they are aware of the client's desires and can act accordingly in case of an emergency.
"I am not allowed to change my mind once I sign this document" is incorrect. The client can change their mind about their advance directive at any time and for any reason. It is important for the client to review their advance directive periodically and make changes as necessary.
"An attorney will need to notarize this document for it to be valid" is also incorrect. While some states require advance directives to be notarized or witnessed, not all states do. It is important for the client to check with their state's laws regarding advance directives to ensure that their document is legally binding.
"My partner needs to be present when I sign this document" is not necessarily true. While it is recommended for the client to have a witness present when signing their advance directive, it does not have to be their partner. The witness should be someone who is not a family member, healthcare provider, or beneficiary of the client's estate.
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