A client is receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis since the arteriovenous (AV) graft in the right arm is no longer available for use for hemodialysis. The client has lost weight, has increasing peripheral edema, and has a serum albumin level of 1.5 g/dL (15 g/L). Which intervention is the priority for the nurse to implement?

Serum Albumin Reference Range: 3.5 to 5.5 g/dL (35 to 55 g/L)

Choice B reason: Emotional conflict due to stress is not a specific problem for a client who had an MI 24 hours ago and wants to go home despite his condition. Emotional conflict is a state of having mixed or contradictory feelings about something or someone, such as family, work, or self. Stress is a response to any physical, psychological, or environmental demand that exceeds one's coping resources. The nurse should assess the client's sources of stress and conflict and help him manage them.

Choice C reason: Deficient knowledge of MI lifestyle changes is not a primary problem for a client who had an MI 24 hours ago and wants to go home despite his condition. Deficient knowledge is a state of lacking information or understanding about something, such as disease process, treatment options, or self-care measures. Lifestyle changes are modifications in one's habits or behaviors that promote health and well-being, such as diet, exercise, smoking cessation, or stress management. The nurse should assess the client's learning needs and readiness and provide appropriate education.

Choice D reason: Anxiety related to treatment plan is not an evident problem for a client who had an MI 24 hours ago and wants to go home despite his condition. Anxiety is a feeling of apprehension, worry, or fear that interferes with one's normal functioning or well-being. Treatment plan is a set of goals, interventions, and outcomes that guide the care of a client with a specific health problem, such as MI. The nurse should assess the client's level of anxiety and provide information and reassurance about his treatment plan.

Choice B reason: Forcing oral fluids and providing frequent small meals are not the most important interventions for a client with alcohol withdrawal delirium. Although hydration and nutrition are important to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, they are not the priority in this case. The client may have difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or aspiration due to altered mental status.

Choice C reason: Confronting the client's denial of substance abuse is not an appropriate intervention for a client with alcohol withdrawal delirium. The client may not be able to comprehend or respond rationally to such confrontation due to impaired cognition and perception. The nurse should avoid arguing or challenging the client's beliefs and focus on providing safety and comfort.

Choice D reason: Encouraging attendance and group participation is not a feasible intervention for a client with alcohol withdrawal delirium. The client may not be able to participate in any social or educational activities due to severe withdrawal symptoms and delusions. The nurse should limit visitors and stimuli and provide one-to-one supervision and reassurance.