A nurse is preparing a client for a diagnostic procedure to confirm the presence of ascites. Which of the following tests is commonly used to visualize and assess the abdominal fluid accumulation in ascites?

Choice A reason:

Administering diuretics may be part of the management plan, but it may not provide immediate relief to the client experiencing discomfort and difficulty breathing.

Choice B reason:

Elevating the head of the bed can help improve respiratory function, but placing the client in a side-lying position is more effective for facilitating fluid drainage from the abdomen and providing immediate relief to the client with ascites.

Choice C reason:

Deep breathing exercises are beneficial for improving lung capacity, but they may not provide immediate relief to the client experiencing discomfort and difficulty breathing due to ascites.

Choice D reason:

This statement is correct. Placing the client in a side-lying position helps to facilitate fluid drainage from the abdomen and can provide immediate relief to the client with ascites who is experiencing discomfort and difficulty breathing.

Choice A reason:

Limiting protein intake is not typically recommended for clients with ascites, as protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.

Choice B reason:

Avoiding foods high in potassium is important for clients with kidney problems, but it is not directly related to reducing fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity for clients with ascites.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Reducing sodium intake is essential to minimize fluid retention and help manage ascites. High sodium levels in the diet can lead to increased fluid retention in the body, exacerbating the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

Choice D reason:

Increasing carbohydrate consumption for sustained energy is not directly related to reducing fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity for clients with ascites.