A client with nephrotic syndrome is at increased risk of developing thromboembolic events. What is the underlying pathophysiological reason for this increased risk?

A. Correct. Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by increased protein loss in the urine, leading to hypoalbuminemia and a weakened immune system. Clients with nephrotic syndrome are at a higher risk of infection, so the priority nursing intervention is to assess for signs of infection and initiate appropriate treatment promptly.

B. Incorrect. While monitoring blood glucose levels is essential in some conditions, it is not the priority for a client with nephrotic syndrome.

C. Incorrect. Dietary education may be necessary, but increasing protein intake is not appropriate for clients with nephrotic syndrome due to the increased protein loss in the urine.

D. Incorrect. Diuretics may be used to manage edema in nephrotic syndrome, but the priority intervention is to assess for infection, as it poses a more immediate threat to the client's health.

A. Incorrect. Elevated platelet count and clotting factors are not characteristic of nephrotic syndrome. Clients with nephrotic syndrome tend to have normal platelet counts.

B. Incorrect. Decreased blood viscosity and enhanced blood flow would not directly lead to an increased risk of thromboembolic events in nephrotic syndrome.

C. Incorrect. While impaired liver function may impact clotting factors, it is not a common manifestation of nephrotic

syndrome.

D. Correct. Nephrotic syndrome is associated with a loss of anticoagulant proteins, particularly antithrombin III, in the urine. This loss of anticoagulant proteins contributes to a state of hypercoagulability, increasing the risk of thromboembolic events, such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.