A nurse is planning care for a client who has cirrhosis and ascites. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Decrease the client's carbohydrate intake.
Increase the client's saturated fat intake.
Decrease the client's fluid intake.
Increase the client's sodium intake.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason : Decreasing the client's carbohydrate intake is not typically a priority intervention for cirrhosis and ascites. While managing overall nutrition is important, carbohydrates are a necessary component of a balanced diet and provide essential energy¹.
Choice B reason : Increasing the client's saturated fat intake is not recommended in cirrhosis and ascites. Saturated fats can contribute to fatty liver disease and worsen liver function. A diet low in saturated fats and high in omega-3 fatty acids is generally advised¹.
Choice C reason : Decreasing the client's fluid intake is a key intervention for managing ascites in cirrhosis. Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, and reducing fluid intake can help manage this condition. The goal is to prevent further fluid accumulation and reduce the risk of complications such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis¹².
Choice D reason : Increasing the client's sodium intake is not advised for cirrhosis and ascites. Sodium can cause the body to retain water, exacerbating fluid accumulation in the abdomen. A low-sodium diet is typically recommended to help control ascites¹.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason : Chronic back pain is not a specific symptom of SLE. While individuals with SLE may experience musculoskeletal pain, it is not as characteristic as other symptoms associated with the condition.
Choice B reason : A facial rash, particularly the classic "butterfly rash" that appears across the cheeks and bridge of the nose, is one of the hallmark signs of SLE. This rash is photosensitive and can be triggered or worsened by exposure to sunlight.
Choice C reason : Thickened skin is more commonly associated with systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) than with SLE. In SLE, skin involvement can include rashes and lesions, but not typically generalized skin thickening.
Choice D reason : Nausea is not a direct symptom of SLE, although it can be a side effect of medications used to treat SLE or may occur if the gastrointestinal system is affected by the disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason : Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means it helps the body get rid of excess water without causing potassium loss. Therefore, a decreased potassium level would not be expected.
Choice B reason : Spironolactone can lead to hyperkalemia (increased potassium levels) and hyponatremia (decreased sodium levels) because it causes the kidneys to excrete sodium while retaining potassium.
Choice C reason : A decreased phosphate level is not a typical finding associated with spironolactone use. Phosphate levels are more commonly affected by renal function and parathyroid hormone levels.
Choice D reason : A decreased chloride level is not specifically associated with spironolactone. While electrolyte imbalances can occur, spironolactone primarily affects potassium and sodium balance.

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