A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has ascites due to cirrhosis. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend to include in the plan?
Restrict the client's sodium intake to 3 g per day.
Position the client supine with legs elevated.
Measure the client's abdominal girth daily.
Keep the client's daily protein intake below 0.8 g/kg.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Sodium restriction is a key component in the management of ascites, as it helps to reduce fluid retention. However, the standard recommendation for sodium intake in ascites management is typically lower than 3 grams per day. The guideline is often around 2 grams or even less to effectively manage ascites. Thus, while the concept is correct, the specific amount in this option is slightly higher than usually recommended.
B. This is not generally recommended for clients with ascites. Lying flat can increase discomfort and pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing more difficult. Instead, positioning the client in a semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position can help alleviate respiratory distress by reducing pressure on the diaphragm.
C. This is a crucial intervention. Measuring abdominal girth daily provides a reliable way to monitor changes in the size of the abdomen, which reflects changes in the amount of ascitic fluid. It helps in assessing the effectiveness of treatment and detecting any rapid accumulation of fluid that might require intervention.
D. While protein restriction was traditionally recommended to prevent hepatic encephalopathy, more recent guidelines suggest that moderate protein intake should be maintained unless the client has severe hepatic encephalopathy. Adequate protein intake is necessary to prevent muscle wasting and support liver function, and it should generally be individualized based on the client’s condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
All of the listed actions can be part of evaluating the effectiveness of a performance improvement program, but identifying data collection methods is the most specific to evaluating the outcomes of the program.
Therefore, the nurse should identify data collection methods to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Reviewing the facility's policy and procedure manual, defining the problem, and performing chart audits are all important steps in the performance improvement process, but they do not specifically address the evaluation of the program's effectiveness.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
During a mass casualty event, it is crucial for the nurse to assess and determine the acuity level (severity) and number of casualties who will be arriving at the healthcare facility. This information helps in planning and organizing resources, triaging patients based on their needs, and ensuring that appropriate care is provided to those who require immediate attention.
Delegating tasks to emergency health care specialists is a role that may be performed by a nurse in a leadership or supervisory position. However, the immediate priority for the nurse is to assess and triage incoming casualties.
Providing informational updates to members of the media is usually handled by designated spokespersons or communication specialists within the healthcare facility or incident command system. Nurses are primarily focused on patient care and should not be responsible for media communication during a mass casualty event.
Assisting in discharging stable clients to home is not directly related to the immediate response and care of casualties from a mass casualty event. The nurse's focus in such situations is primarily on the management of the incoming casualties and ensuring the availability of resources and care for those who require immediate attention.
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