While conducting a physical assessment, a client with cirrhosis of the liver reports to the nurse having had a 5 lb (2.3 kg) weight gain within the last week. Which assessment finding correlates with the client's comment?
Decreased bowel sounds.
Increased respiratory rate.
Increased abdominal girth.
Decreased level of consciousness.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Decreased bowel sounds may be associated with cirrhosis due to altered digestion but do not directly correlate with weight gain.
Choice B reason: An increased respiratory rate can be a sign of many conditions, including fluid overload, but it is not a specific indicator of weight gain due to fluid accumulation.
Choice C reason: Increased abdominal girth is a common sign of ascites, which is fluid accumulation in the abdomen often seen in cirrhosis, correlating with the reported weight gain.
Choice D reason: Decreased level of consciousness may indicate hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhosis patients but does not directly correlate with the weight gain described.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","F","G","H"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Preparing for a cesarean delivery is not indicated solely based on the information provided. The patient is at 36 weeks with moderate pre-eclampsia and there are no immediate signs of fetal distress or a need for emergency delivery based on the nurse’s notes.
Choice B reason: Administering calcium gluconate is appropriate if there are signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity, as it acts as an antidote. The patient’s decreased level of consciousness and absent DTRs may suggest magnesium toxicity, making this a correct intervention.
Choice C reason: Obtaining blood pressure is a standard and ongoing requirement for monitoring a pre-eclampsia patient, especially after noting a significant drop in blood pressure from 170/98 mm Hg to 118/78 mm Hg, which could indicate an overcorrection or other issues.
Choice D reason: Stopping the infusion of magnesium sulfate is not indicated at this time. While the patient’s decreased LOC and absent DTRs are concerning, magnesium sulfate is critical for preventing seizures in pre-eclampsia and should not be stopped without clear signs of overdose and physician consultation.
Choice E reason: Increasing IV fluids is not indicated and could be harmful. The patient already has pulmonary edema and increasing fluids could exacerbate this condition, especially in the context of pre-eclampsia where fluid management needs to be carefully balanced.
Choice F reason: Administering oxygen is correct as the patient’s oxygen saturation has dropped from 98% to 93%, and the goal is to maintain it above 96% as per the physician’s orders.
Choice G reason: Obtaining serum magnesium level is correct because it is necessary to monitor for signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity given the patient’s symptoms of decreased LOC and absent DTRs.
Choice H reason: Preparing to prevent respiratory or cardiac arrest is correct as the patient has signs that may suggest impending magnesium sulfate toxicity, which can lead to respiratory depression or cardiac arrest.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E","G"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Learned coping skills are essential for managing the psychological aspects of obesity and the lifestyle changes required after bariatric surgery. The patient’s engagement with a psychologist and learning coping techniques can help her deal with postoperative stress and maintain the lifestyle modifications necessary for long-term success.
Choice B reason: A psychological assessment helps in understanding the patient’s readiness for surgery and ability to adhere to the postoperative regimen. It can identify any psychological barriers to weight loss and ensure that the patient is mentally prepared for the changes ahead.
Choice C reason: The term “unstained weight loss” seems to be a typographical error, possibly intending to mean “sustained weight loss.” However, sustained weight loss is not applicable in this context as the patient has not yet undergone surgery. Therefore, it does not contribute to the chances of positive outcomes post-surgery.
Choice D reason: Recovery close to the hospital can be beneficial as it allows for easier follow-up visits and quicker access to medical care if complications arise. It also reduces the stress associated with travel for postoperative care.
Choice E reason: Recent weight loss prior to surgery is a positive indicator as it shows the patient’s commitment to lifestyle changes and weight management. It can also reduce surgical risk and improve postoperative recovery1.
Choice F reason: While age can be a factor in surgical risk, there is no direct correlation between the client’s age and the chance for positive outcomes after bariatric surgery. Therefore, it is not a contributing factor in this scenario.
Choice G reason: Family support is crucial for a patient’s recovery and long-term success after bariatric surgery. The patient’s plan to go home with her mother, who lives close to the hospital, indicates a strong support system which can help with adherence to dietary and lifestyle changes.
Choice H reason: A high BMI, such as 41.4 kg/m^2, indicates severe obesity, which is the reason for undergoing bariatric surgery. While it is a factor for considering surgery, it does not inherently increase the chance for positive outcomes post-surgery.
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