A nurse is providing care to a client with ascites. Which intervention is essential for the nurse to implement to promote comfort and reduce abdominal distention?

Encouraging the client to lie flat in bed to reduce pressure on the abdomen.

Administering laxatives to promote bowel movements and relieve bloating.

Assisting the client with regular and gentle ambulation to facilitate fluid movement.

Applying cold packs to the abdomen to reduce inflammation and swelling.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:

Encouraging the client to lie flat in bed may worsen abdominal distention and discomfort. It is better to promote positions that facilitate fluid drainage, such as elevating the head of the bed or placing the client in a side-lying position.

Choice B reason:

Administering laxatives may not be appropriate for ascites management and could lead to electrolyte imbalances. It is essential to manage bowel movements cautiously, considering the client's fluid and electrolyte status.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Assisting the client with regular and gentle ambulation can help facilitate fluid movement and reduce abdominal distention. Movement helps stimulate peristalsis and may improve drainage of fluid from the abdominal cavity.

Choice D reason:

Applying cold packs to the abdomen may provide temporary relief for localized pain but will not directly address the underlying issue of ascites or reduce abdominal distention.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Administering prescribed diuretics is essential in managing ascites, but it may not immediately address the client's respiratory distress.

Choice B reason:

This statement is correct. Elevating the head of the bed can improve respiratory mechanics and ease breathing for a client experiencing respiratory distress due to ascites.

Choice C reason:

Providing oxygen therapy is important for clients with respiratory distress, but it may not directly address the underlying cause of the distress in this situation.

Choice D reason:

Deep breathing exercises are beneficial for promoting lung expansion, but they may not be the priority in a client experiencing severe respiratory distress.

A. Pleural effusion. B. Pneumonia. C. Pulmonary edema. D. Atelectasis.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Pleural effusion is fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity (around the lungs), and it can be associated with ascites, but it is not the specific complication described in the scenario.

Choice B reason:

Pneumonia is a lung infection and is not directly related to the difficulty breathing and increased respiratory rate described in the client with ascites.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Pulmonary edema is a potential complication of ascites in which excess fluid accumulates in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and an increased respiratory rate.

Choice D reason:

Atelectasis is the collapse of part or all of a lung, and while it can be associated with difficulty breathing, it is not directly related to ascites.

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A nurse is providing care to a client with ascites. Which intervention is essential for the nurse to implement to promote comfort and reduce abdominal distention?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with ascites is experiencing respiratory distress and difficulty breathing. The nurse should prioritize which of the following nursing interventions?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client with ascites presents with difficulty breathing and increased respiratory rate. The nurse should recognize these symptoms as a potential complication of ascites known as:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client with ascites. The nurse notices that the client's abdomen is distended, and the skin over the abdomen is taut and shiny. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize based on this assessment finding?

A client with suspected ascites is scheduled for paracentesis. The nurse explains to the client that this procedure involves:

A nurse is providing care to a client with ascites. Which intervention is essential for the nurse to implement to promote comfort and reduce abdominal distention?

A client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is at risk of developing ascites due to impaired fluid regulation. The nurse explains that the kidneys' primary function related to fluid balance is:

A client with chronic alcohol abuse is at risk of developing ascites. The nurse explains that excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to ascites primarily by causing:

A nurse is caring for a client with suspected ascites. In addition to imaging tests, which of the following diagnostic procedures can help determine the underlying cause of the ascites?

A client with cirrhosis and ascites is receiving medical treatment to manage the fluid accumulation. The client asks the nurse about lifestyle changes that may help improve the condition. Which of the following responses by the nurse is accurate?

A client with ascites is admitted to the hospital. The nurse is assessing the client for potential complications related to fluid retention. Which of the following findings would be most concerning and require immediate intervention?