A patient recovering from surgery has an indwelling urinary catheter. For which 24-hour urine output volumes should the nurse notify the patient's healthcare provider?

Choice A rationale:

Sodium level is a laboratory parameter that can be helpful in assessing fluid balance, but it does not directly measure fluid retention. Abnormal sodium levels may indicate fluid imbalances, but it is not the most reliable measure of fluid retention.

Choice B rationale:

Tissue turgor refers to the skin's elasticity, and it can be used to assess dehydration rather than fluid retention. Poor turgor may indicate dehydration, but it does not specifically measure fluid volume increase.

Choice C rationale:

Daily weight is a reliable measure of fluid retention. An increase in weight over a short period may indicate fluid accumulation in the body, while a decrease in weight could signify fluid loss. It is essential to monitor weight consistently under standardized conditions (e.g., same time, same clothing) for accurate assessment.

Choice D rationale:

Intake and output records provide information about fluid intake and output but may not always reflect fluid retention accurately. It is helpful for assessing fluid balance, but daily weight is a more direct and reliable measure of fluid retention.

A, D, and E.

Choice A rationale:

Furosemide is a loop diuretic that promotes diuresis, causing an increase in urine output. It is essential for the patient to expect this effect and understand that it helps in reducing fluid overload.

Choice B rationale:

Feeling weak and dizzy is not an expected effect of furosemide. It is more commonly associated with dehydration or excessive fluid loss, which can occur if the medication causes too much diuresis.

Choice C rationale:

Taking furosemide before going to sleep is not recommended because it can lead to nighttime diuresis, disrupting sleep and potentially causing electrolyte imbalances.

Choice D rationale:

Swelling of the face or hands may indicate an adverse reaction to furosemide or an underlying medical issue. The nurse should instruct the patient to report any such symptoms promptly.

Choice E rationale:

Monitoring body weight daily is crucial for patients on diuretic therapy to assess fluid status and response to treatment. Rapid weight gain may indicate worsening fluid overload, while significant weight loss may indicate excessive diuresis.