A nurse cares for a patient who has a heart rate averaging 54 beats/min with no adverse symptoms. Which activity modification would the nurse suggest to avoid further slowing of the heart rate?

Choice A reason: Not needing vascular access to perform PD is a significant advantage for patients. Peritoneal dialysis uses the peritoneal membrane in the abdomen as a filter to clean the blood, which eliminates the need for vascular access, such as fistulas or catheters required in hemodialysis. This can reduce the risks associated with vascular access, such as infections and complications related to surgical procedures.

Choice B reason: Being able to perform PD in the comfort of one's home is a major benefit. Patients can manage their dialysis treatments at home, which offers more convenience and flexibility compared to traveling to a dialysis center for hemodialysis sessions. This can greatly improve the quality of life and reduce the burden of frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

Choice C reason: Stating that there is no risk for infection with PD is inaccurate. While PD offers many benefits, it does carry a risk of peritonitis, an infection of the peritoneal cavity. Patients must be educated on proper technique and hygiene to minimize this risk. Hence, this statement is not accurate and should not be included as an advantage.

Choice D reason: Having flexibility in when to do the exchanges is another benefit of PD. Patients can schedule their dialysis exchanges at times that best fit their lifestyle and daily routines. This flexibility allows for greater independence and freedom compared to the fixed schedules required for in-center hemodialysis.

Choice E reason: PD can take less time than hemodialysis treatments, especially when considering travel and waiting times associated with in-center hemodialysis. Although the actual dialysis process for PD requires regular exchanges throughout the day or night, it integrates more seamlessly into daily life, making it a time-efficient option for many patients.

Choice A reason: Effective pain management is the highest priority in the care of a patient with acute pancreatitis. Severe abdominal pain is a hallmark of acute pancreatitis and can significantly impact the patient's comfort and ability to participate in other aspects of their care. Managing pain effectively helps improve the patient's overall well-being and allows for better participation in treatments and recovery.

Choice B reason: Decreasing patient anxiety is important, but it is not the primary goal in the acute management of pancreatitis. Addressing anxiety can help improve the patient's experience and adherence to treatment, but managing pain and hydration are more critical in the immediate care.

Choice C reason: Adequate hydration is crucial in the management of acute pancreatitis, as dehydration can worsen the condition and lead to complications. However, pain management takes precedence because uncontrolled pain can lead to further stress and complications, hindering the effectiveness of hydration and other treatments.

Choice D reason: Decreasing potassium intake is not a primary goal in the management of acute pancreatitis. While electrolyte balance is important, there is no direct indication that potassium levels need to be specifically managed unless there is a documented imbalance. The focus should be on pain management and hydration.