A nurse is teaching a client and his partner about performing peritoneal dialysis at home.
When discussing peritonitis, which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as the earliest indication of this complication?
Increased heart rate
Generalized abdominal pain
Cloudy effluent
Fever
The Correct Answer is C
This is because peritonitis is an infection of the peritoneal cavity that can occur as a complication of peritoneal dialysis. Peritonitis can cause inflammation and irritation of the peritoneum, which can lead to cloudy or milky appearance of the dialysate fluid that drains out of the abdomen (also known as effluent). Cloudy effluent is often the first and most reliable sign of peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients. Other signs and symptoms of peritonitis may include increased heart rate, generalized abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and malaise.
The nurse should instruct the client and his partner to inspect the effluent for clarity every time they perform an exchange and to report any changes to their health care provider immediately. The nurse should also teach them how to prevent peritonitis by following strict aseptic technique when handling catheters and supplies, washing hands before and after each exchange, wearing a mask during exchanges, and storing supplies in a clean and dry place.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should contact the local Department of Health and Human Services for the client, as this agency may be able to provide assistance with heating costs or other resources for low-income individuals.
Older adults are at increased risk of hypothermia, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when body temperature drops below 35° C (95° F). Hypothermia can be caused by exposure to cold temperatures, inadequate clothing, poor nutrition, chronic illness, or medication use. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to intervene and help the client maintain a safe and comfortable home environment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A hacking cough, especially at night or when lying down, is a common manifestation of left-sided heart failure, as fluid accumulates in the lungs and causes pulmonary congestion and dyspnea. Neck-vein distention and ankle edema are more indicative of right-sided heart failure, as fluid backs up into the systemic circulation and causes peripheral edema and jugular venous pressure elevation. Anorexia may occur in either type of heart failure, but it is not specific to left-sided heart failure.
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