A nurse is assessing a client with ascites. The nurse notices that the client's abdomen is distended, and the skin over the abdomen is taut and shiny. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize based on this assessment finding?

Measure abdominal girth and document findings.

Elevate the client's legs to reduce abdominal fluid volume.

Administer diuretics to promote urine output and fluid removal.

Apply an abdominal binder to support the distended abdomen.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A reason:

This statement is correct. Measuring abdominal girth and documenting findings are essential to monitor changes in fluid accumulation and assess the effectiveness of interventions.

Choice B reason:

Elevating the client's legs may help with edema in the lower extremities but will not directly address the fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity.

Choice C reason:

Administering diuretics may be part of the management plan for ascites, but it may not be the initial intervention to address the client's current condition.

Choice D reason:

Applying an abdominal binder may be beneficial in certain cases, but it will not directly address the underlying cause of ascites or reduce fluid accumulation in the abdomen.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Increased urine output and dehydration are not early signs of ascites progression. Ascites involves fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity, not fluid loss through the urinary system.

Choice B reason:

Weight loss and decreased abdominal girth are not early signs of ascites progression. Ascites typically leads to increased abdominal girth and swelling.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Visible abdominal swelling and distention are early signs of ascites progression. As fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity, the abdomen may become visibly swollen and distended.

Choice D reason:

Reduced ankle edema and lower extremity swelling are not early signs of ascites progression. Ascites primarily affects the abdominal cavity, not the extremities.

A. Withhold all oral medications on the day of the procedure. B. Administer an analgesic to the client to relieve pain during the procedure. C. Assist the client in emptying the bladder before the procedure. D. Ensure that the client has been fasting for at least 12 hours before the procedure.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Withholding all oral medications on the day of the procedure may not be necessary and should be determined by the healthcare provider's instructions based on the specific medications the client is taking.

Choice B reason:

Administering an analgesic to the client before the procedure may be appropriate to relieve pain, but it should be prescribed and administered by the healthcare provider.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Ensuring that the client has emptied the bladder before the paracentesis procedure is important to prevent any potential complications during the procedure.

Choice D reason:

Fasting for at least 12 hours before the procedure may not be necessary for a paracentesis, as it is typically a minor procedure and does not require prolonged fasting.

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A nurse is assessing a client with ascites. The nurse notices that the client's abdomen is distended, and the skin over the abdomen is taut and shiny. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize based on this assessment finding?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with ascites is being monitored for signs of fluid accumulation and complications. The nurse should assess for which of the following early signs of ascites progression?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with ascites is scheduled for a paracentesis to relieve discomfort and abdominal distention. What action should the nurse take before the procedure to ensure client safety?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with chronic liver disease and ascites reports feeling fatigued and weak. The nurse should recognize these symptoms as potential manifestations of:

A client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is at risk of developing ascites due to impaired fluid regulation. The nurse explains that the kidneys' primary function related to fluid balance is:

A nurse is educating a client with cirrhosis about measures to prevent ascites exacerbation. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A client with severe ascites is undergoing therapeutic paracentesis. After the procedure, the nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications?

A client with ascites is at risk of developing fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Which nursing intervention should be implemented to monitor the client's fluid balance and hydration status effectively?

A nurse is providing care to a client with ascites. Which intervention is essential for the nurse to implement to promote comfort and reduce abdominal distention?

A nurse is reviewing the results of a client's diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of ascites. Which of the following laboratory findings is commonly associated with ascites?

A client with cirrhosis is undergoing diagnostic tests to assess the severity and extent of ascites. The nurse explains that an imaging test commonly used to evaluate the liver and abdominal organs in this client is: