A nurse is caring for a client suspected of having pulmonary edema. Which diagnostic test is commonly used to assess the severity and underlying cause of pulmonary edema?

A) Incorrect. Limiting fluid intake should be based on the client's specific medical recommendations and should not be a general guideline.

B) Incorrect. Avoiding all physical activity is not necessary and can lead to deconditioning. Clients should engage in appropriate physical activity as advised by their healthcare provider.

C) Incorrect. Blood pressure should be regularly monitored as directed by the healthcare provider, not only when symptoms worsen.

D) Correct. Taking prescribed medications as directed, especially diuretics and medications to manage underlying conditions, is crucial in preventing recurrence of pulmonary edema.

A) Correct. A CT scan can help identify the presence of fluid in the alveoli and interstitial spaces of the lungs, making it a valuable tool in diagnosing pulmonary edema.

B) Incorrect. MRI is not typically used to diagnose pulmonary edema, as it may not provide as clear an image of lung tissue as a CT scan.

C) Incorrect. PET scans are more commonly used in oncology to detect metabolic activity and are not typically used for pulmonary edema diagnosis.

D) Incorrect. While ultrasound can be useful in assessing pleural effusions, it may not provide the same level of detail as a CT scan for diagnosing pulmonary edema.