A client with chronic alcohol abuse is at risk of developing ascites. The nurse explains that excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to ascites primarily by causing:

Choice A reason:

Regulation of blood glucose levels is not a primary function of the kidneys in fluid balance. It is primarily related to the endocrine system and insulin regulation.

Choice B reason:

Maintenance of acid-base balance is a critical function of the kidneys but is not directly related to fluid balance leading to ascites.

Choice C reason:

Production of red blood cells occurs in the bone marrow, not the kidneys. While the kidneys produce erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production, this is not the primary function related to fluid balance.

Choice D reason:

This statement is correct. The kidneys' primary function related to fluid balance is filtration and excretion of waste products and excess fluid, which helps maintain proper fluid balance in the body. In chronic kidney disease (CKD), impaired kidney function can lead to fluid retention and contribute to the development of ascites.

Choice A reason:

Electrolyte imbalances can occur in clients with ascites, but they are not directly related to the symptoms of fatigue and weakness described by the client.

Choice B reason:

Iron deficiency anemia may be present in clients with chronic liver disease, but it is not the primary cause of the client's fatigue and weakness in this scenario.

Choice C reason:

Hepatic encephalopathy is a complication of liver disease, but it typically presents with neurological symptoms such as confusion, altered mental status, and behavior changes, not fatigue and weakness.

Choice D reason:

This statement is correct. Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms in clients with chronic liver disease and ascites, and they can be related to malnutrition, which is often seen in these clients due to poor appetite, nutrient malabsorption, and other factors related to liver dysfunction.