A nurse is assessing a client's pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP). The nurse should recognize that an elevated PAWP indicates which of the following complications?

Rationale:

A. “Dehydration is treated with calcium supplements.": Calcium supplementation is not a standard treatment for dehydration. Dehydration is primarily managed with fluid replacement, either orally or intravenously, depending on severity.

B. "Dehydration is caused by a decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit.": Dehydration often causes increased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels due to hemoconcentration, not a decrease. These lab values are used to assess hydration status but do not cause dehydration.

C. "Dehydration is associated with gastroesophageal reflux”: GERD is not a direct cause or result of dehydration. While fluid intake can influence GI symptoms, GERD and dehydration are unrelated conditions with different pathophysiologies.

D. "Dehydration can increase the risk for preterm labor”: Dehydration can trigger the release of antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin, both of which may lead to uterine contractions. It is a recognized risk factor for preterm labor and should be addressed promptly.

Rationale for correct choices:

• Electrolyte imbalance: The client’s potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L is critically low, contributing to premature ventricular contractions and orthostatic hypotension. These abnormalities place the client at immediate risk for cardiac dysrhythmias and require urgent correction to prevent life-threatening complications.
• View of body: The client voices fear of gaining weight and fixates on food, which are indicators of distorted self-perception. This impaired view of the body is a central feature of bulimia nervosa and needs to be addressed during psychotherapy once the client is medically stabilized.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Impaired body image: While body image concerns are common in eating disorders, this option is more general. “View of body” better captures the client’s psychological distortion and allows for more precise therapeutic interventions that address the cognitive roots of the disorder.
• Impaired coping: The client engages in maladaptive coping strategies like bingeing and purging. However, these behaviors are secondary to deeper distortions in self-image and medical instability. Coping can be addressed later in the treatment process once safety is ensured.
• History of anxiety: Anxiety is part of the client's long-standing history but is not causing the immediate physical risk. Addressing acute electrolyte disturbances and body image distortion takes precedence over chronic anxiety in this clinical setting.
• Obsession with food: Although the client’s persistent thoughts about food are important, they are symptoms driven by distorted body perception. Treating the underlying belief system about body image is more foundational and effective in resolving food-related obsessions.