The nurse is caring for a client who has prostate cancer. Which of the following manifestations does the nurse attribute to the advancing disease process?

Choice A reason:
Decreased hemoglobin (Hgb) levels can be indicative of anemia or blood loss, but they are not typically associated with fluid volume deficit. In cases of fluid volume deficit, the Hgb concentration may actually appear elevated due to hemoconcentration as the plasma volume decreases.

Choice B reason:
Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels are expected in a fluid volume deficit because as the blood volume decreases, the concentration of solutes like urea can increase. This is often due to decreased renal perfusion and subsequent reduced renal function, leading to less urea being excreted through the kidneys.

Choice C reason:
Increased urine ketones are typically associated with diabetic ketoacidosis or starvation, not directly with fluid volume deficit. Ketones are produced when the body breaks down fats for energy, which is not a process directly related to fluid volume status.

Choice D reason:
Decreased urine specific gravity would not be expected in fluid volume deficit; in fact, one would expect the opposite. Specific gravity measures the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. In fluid volume deficit, the urine specific gravity would likely be increased as the body attempts to conserve water.

Choice A reason:
Gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, is not specifically associated with a decreased CD4+ T-cell count. While individuals with HIV/AIDS may have an increased risk for periodontal diseases due to a compromised immune system, gingivitis is not directly linked to the CD4+ T-cell count¹.

Choice B reason:
Xerostomia, or dry mouth, can be a side effect of medications or secondary to other conditions but is not an infectious condition. It is not directly related to a decreased CD4+ T-cell count, although it may be more common in individuals with HIV/AIDS due to various factors, including medication side effects¹.

Choice C reason:
Candidiasis, also known as oral thrush, is a common opportunistic infection in individuals with HIV/AIDS, especially when the CD4+ T-cell count is significantly decreased. It is caused by the fungus Candida and can lead to white patches in the mouth, soreness, and difficulty swallowing.

Choice D reason:
Halitosis, or bad breath, is not an infectious condition and is not directly associated with a decreased CD4+ T-cell count. It can result from various factors, including oral hygiene, diet, or underlying health conditions, but it is not a specific concern related to HIV/AID.