A nurse is providing education to a client diagnosed with congestive heart failure. The client asks, "What are the most common causes of CHF?" How should the nurse respond?

A) This choice is incorrect because limiting fluid intake is not specific to the administration of spironolactone. Fluid intake may need to be adjusted based on the client's overall fluid balance and congestive heart failure status, but it is not a direct instruction related to the medication.

B) This choice is correct. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can cause hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). The client should avoid foods high in potassium to help prevent potassium overload and potential adverse effects.

C) This choice is incorrect because the timing of spironolactone administration may vary depending on the client's individual response and the presence of other medications. The client should follow the prescribed schedule given by the healthcare provider.

D) This choice is incorrect because monitoring blood pressure daily and adjusting the dose accordingly is not specific to the administration of spironolactone. While blood pressure may need to be monitored regularly, dosage adjustments should only be made under the guidance of the healthcare provider.

Questions

A) This choice is incorrect because clubbing refers to the enlargement of the fingertips and nails due to chronic hypoxia, which is not related to the client's reported symptoms.

B) This choice is correct. Peripheral edema refers to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, which is a common symptom of congestive heart failure. The client's symptoms of swollen ankles, legs, and abdomen indicate peripheral edema.

C) This choice is incorrect because pitting edema is a specific type of edema where pressure on the skin leaves an indentation or "pit." While the client's edema may indeed be pitting, the question does not provide enough information to confirm this.

D) This choice is incorrect because ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is not specific to the client's reported symptoms of swollen ankles and legs.