A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for four clients. Which of the following results is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should not instruct the older adult client with osteoporosis to increase high-impact activities. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by decreased bone density and strength, making high-impact activities potentially harmful as they could increase the risk of fractures.

Choice B rationale:

The nurse should not advise the client to consume a low-protein diet. Adequate protein intake is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall musculoskeletal health, especially in older adults who may be at risk of muscle wasting.

Choice C rationale:

The nurse should not encourage the client to maintain a BMI of 30 to 35. A BMI within this range is considered obese and can put additional stress on the musculoskeletal system, increasing the risk of joint problems and other health issues.

Choice D rationale:

Including fiber in the diet is a correct instruction for promoting musculoskeletal health. Fiber-rich foods can help maintain bowel regularity and prevent constipation, which is important for overall comfort and mobility in older adults with osteoporosis.

Answer: A. Administer furosemide.

Rationales

A. Administer furosemide.
Furosemide, a loop diuretic, helps reduce fluid overload by promoting urinary excretion of sodium and water. In a client with cirrhosis and ascites, it decreases abdominal distention, eases breathing by reducing pressure on the diaphragm, and prevents complications related to severe fluid accumulation.

B. Weigh the client weekly.
Weekly weights would not provide sufficient monitoring for a client with ascites, since fluid retention can change rapidly within hours or days. Daily weights are necessary to detect subtle increases in fluid status and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.

C. Offer the client a high-sodium diet.
A high-sodium diet would worsen fluid retention and ascites, as sodium promotes water retention. Instead, a low-sodium diet is indicated to limit further fluid buildup in the peritoneal cavity.

D. Administer heparin.
Heparin is not a standard intervention for cirrhosis with ascites. Because the diseased liver produces fewer clotting factors, clients are already at risk for bleeding, and anticoagulant therapy would heighten this risk without addressing the underlying problem of fluid accumulation.