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 A
Explanation
Confusion can be a sign of delirium, which is a common complication of immobility in older adults due to sensory deprivation, sleep disturbance, medication side effects, or dehydration. The nurse should assess for other causes of confusion, such as infection or hypoxia, and implement interventions to prevent or treat delirium.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Weight gain 1.1 kg (2.4 lb) in 24 hours indicates fluid retention and possible volume overload, which can worsen kidney function and cause complications such as hypertension, pulmonary edema, and heart failure. The nurse should report this finding to the provider and monitor the client's vital signs, fluid intake and output, and electrolyte levels.
Creatinine 0.8 mL/dL is within the normal range for adults and does not indicate kidney impairment. Peripheral pulses 2+ bilaterally are normal and do not suggest any vascular problems. Urine specific gravity 1.045 is slightly high but not abnormal for a client with acute kidney failure, as it reflects the reduced ability of the kidneys to dilute urine.
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