When is it most important for the nurse to assess a pregnant client's deep tendon reflexes (DTRs)?

Choice C is correct because serum potassium, calcium, and phosphorus are electrolytes that can be affected by ESRD. ESRD is a condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood. This can cause electrolyte imbalances that can lead to serious complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias, bone disorders, or metabolic acidosis. The nurse should closely monitor these electrolytes and report any abnormal values.

Choice A is incorrect because blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature are vital signs that are not specific to ESRD. Vital signs can be influenced by many factors and may not reflect the severity of kidney damage. The nurse should monitor vital signs regularly, but not as closely as electrolytes.

Choice B is incorrect because leukocytes, neutrophils, and thyroxine are not laboratory results that are directly related to ESRD. Leukocytes and neutrophils are types of white blood cells that are involved in immune response and inflammation. Thyroxine is a hormone that regulates metabolism and growth. These laboratory results may be altered by other conditions or medications, but not by ESRD.

Choice D is incorrect because erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit are laboratory results that measure the red blood cell count and oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. These laboratory results may be decreased in ESRD due to anemia, which is a common complication of chronic kidney disease. However, anemia is not as life-threatening as electrolyte imbalances and can be treated with erythropoietin injections or iron supplements.

Choice A: Client’s healthcare power of attorney. This is not the first information that the nurse should provide, as it does not address the current situation or problem of the client. The healthcare power of attorney is a legal document that designates who can make medical decisions for the client if they are unable to do so themselves.

Choice B: Currently prescribed medications. This is not the first information that the nurse should provide, as it does not address the current situation or problem of the client. The currently prescribed medications are a part of the background information that can help explain the client’s medical history and potential causes of confusion.

Choice C: Fall at home as reason for admission. This is not the first information that the nurse should provide, as it does not address the current situation or problem of the client. The fall at home is a part of the background information that can help explain the client’s reason for admission and potential injuries.

Choice D: Increasing confusion of the client. This is the first information that the nurse should provide, as it addresses the current situation or problem of the client. The increasing confusion of the client is a part of the assessment information that can help identify the urgency and severity of the issue and guide further interventions.