A nurse is caring for a client with nephrotic syndrome who develops abdominal distension and discomfort. What complication should the nurse suspect based on these manifestations?

A. Correct. Immunosuppressive medications are prescribed in nephrotic syndrome to reduce inflammation in the kidneys and prevent further damage, including kidney scarring. They help slow the progression of the disease and preserve kidney function.

B. Incorrect. Immunosuppressive medications are not primarily used to address fluid overload or improve urinary output in nephrotic syndrome.

C. Incorrect. While some immunosuppressive medications may have an impact on blood glucose levels, they are not typically used to manage diabetes in nephrotic syndrome.

D. Incorrect. Immunosuppressive medications do not directly alleviate pain and discomfort associated with edema in nephrotic syndrome. Other interventions, such as diuretics, are used for managing edema.

QUESTIONS

A. Correct. Periorbital edema is a common manifestation of nephrotic syndrome, especially in the morning after fluid accumulation overnight. Elevated blood pressure and headache may accompany this edema, indicating fluid retention and hypertension, which are frequently associated with nephrotic syndrome.

B. Incorrect. Yellowish discoloration of the skin and sclera (jaundicE. is not a typical manifestation of nephrotic syndrome and is more indicative of liver dysfunction or bile flow obstruction.

C. Incorrect. Pain and tenderness over the lower back are not directly related to periorbital edema and may suggest a separate issue, such as musculoskeletal pain.

D. Incorrect. Shortness of breath and crackles in the lungs are not specific to nephrotic syndrome and may suggest other respiratory or cardiac issues.