A nurse is caring for a client who has a new arteriovenous (AV) graft in his left forearm. Which of the following techniques should the nurse use to assess the patency of this graft?

 

Choice A reason: Warming the dialysate in a microwave oven is not recommended because uneven heating could occur, leading to hot spots that can burn the peritoneal cavity. The dialysate should be warmed to body temperature using a warming device designed for this purpose.

Choice B reason: While some discomfort may be experienced during the first few exchanges, significant pain is not expected. If pain occurs, it should be reported to a healthcare provider, as it may indicate an underlying problem.

Choice C reason: Redness at the catheter exit site is not a normal expectation and could indicate an infection. The site should be kept clean and dry, and any signs of redness, swelling, or discharge should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.

Choice D reason: There is no need to avoid foods high in fiber unless otherwise advised by a healthcare provider. In fact, a diet high in fiber can be beneficial for bowel regularity, which is important for patients on peritoneal dialysis.

Choice A reason: Ensuring the client's urine output is at least 1 mL/kg/hour is important before administering potassium to prevent hyperkalemia, especially in clients with renal impairment.

Choice B reason: While educating the client about high-potassium food sources is important, it is not directly related to the administration of intravenous potassium.

Choice C reason: Cardiac monitoring during infusion is crucial due to the risk of arrhythmias associated with rapid

changes in potassium levels.

Choice D reason: Repeating blood serum potassium is necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the supplementation and avoid hyperkalemia.

Choice E reason: Potassium should not be prepared with 5% dextrose solution as it may cause a trans-cellular shift of potassium into cells, which is not recommended.