Which method is best for the nurse to use in determining early development of ascites?

Inspection of the abdomen for enlargement,

Palpation of an abdominal fluid wave.

Bimanual palpation for liver enlargement.

Successive measurements of abdominal girth.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Inspection of the abdomen for enlargement: Ascites causes abdominal distention. Inspection is a straightforward way to assess for fluid accumulation.

B. Palpation of an abdominal fluid wave: Palpating for a fluid wave (shifting of fluid within the abdomen) is a classic sign of ascites.

C. Bimanual palpation for liver enlargement: While liver enlargement can contribute to ascites, it is not the primary method for detecting early ascites.

D. Successive measurements of abdominal girth: Regular measurements of abdominal girth help track changes over time and detect early ascites.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): Elevated BUN can indicate kidney problems, but it's not the primary test for melena (black, tarry stools) which suggests upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

B. Glucose: Glucose levels might be abnormal in some conditions that can cause bleeding, but it's not the most specific test for melena.

C. White blood cell count (WBC): WBC might be elevated in response to infection or inflammation, but it's not the most specific test for melena.

D. Hematocrit: Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. Melena can indicate significant blood loss, and monitoring hematocrit helps assess the severity of bleeding and potential need for blood transfusions.

A. Increase fiber in diet and add daily prune juice. B. Perform a digital examination for fecal impaction. C. Assess type and frequency of physical activities. D. Check bowel sounds and abdominal tenderness.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Increase fibre in diet and add daily prune juice: Increasing dietary fibre and adding prune juice can help promote bowel movements and relieve constipation. However, this is a long-term solution and might not address any immediate underlying issues.

B. Perform a digital examination for faecal impaction: This invasive procedure can confirm or rule out faecal impaction, which is a potential cause of severe constipation, especially in older adults. However, it's not typically the first step without further assessment.

C. Assess type and frequency of physical activities: Physical activity affects bowel motility. Assessing activity levels can provide insight into one possible cause of constipation. However, this should come after assessing more direct symptoms.

D. Check bowel sounds and abdominal tenderness: This is a non-invasive initial assessment that can provide important information about the client's bowel activity and potential obstructions. It helps determine the next steps for diagnosis and treatment.

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Which method is best for the nurse to use in determining early development of ascites?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse observes that a client is experiencing melena. Which serum laboratory test should the nurse monitor in response to this finding?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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