A nurse is caring for a client with acute kidney injury (AKI). The client's urine output is significantly reduced, and laboratory tests show elevated levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Which of the following is the primary indication for initiating dialysis in this client?

A. Incorrect. Using sterile technique when handling the catheter is essential to prevent infection. Clients and caregivers should be taught the proper aseptic technique for catheter care.

B. Incorrect. Alcohol wipes can dry out the skin and are not recommended for cleaning the catheter insertion site. A more appropriate solution is provided in the correct answer.

C. Correct. Changing the dressing over the catheter daily using clean gloves helps maintain a clean and dry site, reducing the risk of infection during peritoneal dialysis.

D. Incorrect. The catheter should not be immersed in water during bathing or showering, as this can introduce pathogens and increase the risk of infection.

A) This statement is incorrect. Administering an analgesic for the abdominal pain may provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying cause of the symptoms.

B) This statement is incorrect. Measuring blood pressure and pulse rate is essential for client assessment, but it may not provide enough information to determine the cause of the symptoms.

C) This statement is accurate. Abdominal pain and fever in a client on peritoneal dialysis may indicate peritonitis, which can result from infection or catheter issues. The nurse should first check the catheter for kinks or obstructions to ensure proper drainage and prevent complications.

D) This statement is incorrect. Notifying the healthcare provider about the symptoms is important, but the nurse should first assess the catheter for possible issues to determine if immediate intervention is needed.