A client with cirrhosis of the liver reports a 5 lb (2.3 kg) weight gain within the last week during a physical assessment. Which assessment finding correlates with the client's report?

The correct answer is: c. Inspiratory and expiratory bilateral crackles.

Choice A: Average urine output of 28 mL/hour

Reason: The normal urine output for an adult is typically 0.5 mL/kg/hr, which translates to about 30-50 mL/hr for most adults. An average urine output of 28 mL/hour is slightly below this range, indicating possible inadequate fluid resuscitation. However, it is not immediately life-threatening and does not warrant the most urgent intervention compared to other options.

Choice B: Vesicular bibasilar breath sounds

Reason: Vesicular breath sounds are normal lung sounds heard over most of the lung fields. They are soft and low-pitched, indicating that the airways are clear. Therefore, vesicular bibasilar breath sounds do not indicate any immediate respiratory distress or fluid overload and do not require urgent intervention.

Choice C: Inspiratory and expiratory bilateral crackles

Reason: Crackles, also known as rales, are abnormal lung sounds that indicate the presence of fluid in the alveoli. Bilateral crackles heard during both inspiration and expiration suggest significant pulmonary edema or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which can be life-threatening and requires immediate intervention.

Choice D: Central venous pressure of 12 mm Hg

Reason: The normal range for central venous pressure (CVP) is 2-8 mm Hg. A CVP of 12 mm Hg is elevated, indicating possible fluid overload or heart failure. While this is concerning and requires monitoring, it is not as immediately critical as bilateral crackles, which directly affect oxygenation and respiratory function.

Choice A reason: Placing the child on a continuous cardiopulmonary monitor is a standard post-operative order for monitoring the child’s heart and lung function after cardiac catheterization.
Choice B reason: Checking pedal pulses every 4 hours is important to ensure that there is adequate blood flow to the extremities, which can be compromised after cardiac procedures.
Choice C reason: Point of care blood glucose testing every 6 hours may not be necessary unless the child has a history of diabetes or there was a specific concern during the procedure. This order should be clarified with the physician.
Choice D reason: Admitting the child to the pediatric floor for observation is a standard procedure to monitor for any complications following cardiac catheterization.
Choice E reason: Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours is a typical post-operative order to ensure the child’s stability after the procedure.
Choice F reason: Checking the dressing every 15 minutes for 1 hour and then every hour for 24 hours is a standard order to monitor for bleeding or other complications at the catheterization site.
Choice G reason: The order for NPO status might need to be questioned depending on the time expected before the child can eat or drink again, especially considering the child’s age and the need for hydration and nutrition.
Choice H reason: Administering Lactated Ringers IV at 66 mL/hr while NPO is a standard order to maintain hydration while the child cannot take anything by mouth.