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.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
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.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E","F","G"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Allowing for menu deviations can help accommodate the patient’s preferences and encourage eating, which is crucial for recovery from emaciation.
Choice B Reason: Setting precise mealtimes can provide structure and consistency, which may help the patient establish regular eating habits.
Choice C Reason: Encouraging exercise is not appropriate at this stage due to the patient’s bradycardia and low BMI, which indicate a high risk for physical complications.
Choice D Reason: Monitoring trips to the restroom is important to prevent purging behaviors, which can be a concern in patients with eating disorders.
Choice E Reason: Providing family education on the condition is essential to ensure that the family understands the patient’s needs and how to support her recovery.
Choice F Reason: Weighing the patient twice weekly can help monitor her progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Choice G Reason: Acknowledging feelings of anxiety is important for addressing the psychological aspects of the patient’s condition and promoting a supportive environment.
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