A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a patient who has a urinary tract infection (UTI). Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as a risk factor?

Choice A rationale
While it is true that an increased weight in the abdomen can lead to discomfort when lying down, simply having extra pillows in bed may not be sufficient to address the issue. Ascites, or the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, can cause significant discomfort and even

pain. It can also lead to respiratory issues as the fluid puts pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing difficult. Therefore, while extra pillows may help to some extent by allowing the patient to find a more comfortable position, they are not a comprehensive solution.
Choice B rationale
Advising the patient not to wear undergarments because they will not fit due to the increased weight in the abdomen is not a medically sound advice. While it is true that ascites can cause distension of the abdomen, the focus should be on treating the underlying condition and managing the symptoms, rather than on the fit of the patient’s clothing. Moreover, the choice of clothing is a personal decision and may have psychological implications for the patient.
Choice C rationale
The statement that the increased weight in the abdomen means that the patient can no longer exercise due to the strain on the heart is not entirely accurate. While it is true that ascites can put additional strain on the heart and other organs, it does not necessarily mean that all forms of exercise are contraindicated. In fact, gentle forms of exercise may be beneficial for overall health and well-being. However, any exercise regimen should be discussed with and approved by a healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale
This is the correct choice. Due to the increased abdominal weight from ascites, the patient’s balance might indeed be affected, increasing the risk of falls. Therefore, advising the patient to take their time with walking is a valid precaution. Fall prevention is a key aspect of care for patients with ascites due to end-stage liver disease.

Choice A rationale
This statement is not entirely accurate. Crohn’s disease does not resemble a second-degree burn. It is an inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract.
Choice B rationale
While this statement is technically correct, it uses medical jargon that may be difficult for a patient to understand. Crohn’s disease is indeed characterized by transmural granulomatous inflammation, meaning it affects the entire wall of the gastrointestinal tract. However, this description may not be easily understood by a patient without a medical background.
Choice C rationale
This statement is partially correct but not entirely accurate. Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation in the mucosa and sub-mucosa of the colon and rectal linings, but it is not limited to these areas. It can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus.
Choice D rationale
This is the most simplistic and non-medical description of the disorder. Crohn’s disease can indeed give the appearance of a “patchwork quilt” in the gastrointestinal tract, with some areas

clear and others inflamed or ulcerated. This description provides a visual analogy that may be easier for a patient to understand.