What is the most accurate indicator of fluid loss or gain in acutely ill patients?
Daily weight.
Intake and output.
Serum osmolality.
Urine specific gravity.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A. Daily weight.
According to MDCalc, daily weight is the most accurate indicator of fluid loss or gain in acutely ill patients, as it reflects changes in total body water.
A weight change of 1 kg corresponds to a fluid change of approximately 1 L.
Choice B is wrong because intake and output measurements can be inaccurate or incomplete, and do not account for insensible fluid losses.
Choice C is wrong because serum osmolality reflects the concentration of solutes in the blood, not the volume of fluid.
Choice D is wrong because urine specific gravity reflects the concentration of solutes in the urine, not the volume of fluid.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because acute renal failure is a condition where the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. This can lead to fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic acidosis. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the patient’s urine output and fluid balance to assess the severity of the renal impairment and prevent complications.
Choice A is wrong because administering a potassium-sparing diuretic would worsen the patient’s hyperkalemia, which is a common complication of acute renal failure.
Choice B is wrong because encouraging the patient to consume a high-sodium diet would increase the patient’s fluid retention and blood pressure, which can further damage the kidneys.
Choice D is wrong because administering intravenous antibiotics is not a priority intervention for acute renal failure unless there is a specific indication of infection.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is a priority nursing intervention for a client with acute kidney injury (AKI) because it helps to assess the renal function and fluid status of the client. Urine output is also an indicator of the response to treatment and the need for further interventions.
Choice A is wrong because pain medication is not a priority intervention for AKI unless the client has other conditions that cause pain.
Pain medication may also have adverse effects on the kidney function and should be used with caution.
Choice C is wrong because ambulation is not a priority intervention for AKI and may not be appropriate for a client who is fluid overloaded or hypotensive.
Ambulation may also increase the risk of falls and injury in a client who is confused or fatigued.
Choice D is wrong because assisting with meals is not a priority intervention for AKI and may not be necessary for a client who has adequate oral intake.
A client with AKI may also have dietary restrictions such as low protein, low potassium, low sodium, and low phosphorus, which should be considered when providing meals.
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