Albumin 25% IV is prescribed for a child with nephrotic syndrome. Which assessment finding indicates to the nurse that the medication is having the desired effect?
Weight gain.
Reduction of edema.
Improved caloric intake.
Reduction of fever.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Weight gain. While albumin administration increases intravascular volume, leading to temporary fluid retention, the goal in nephrotic syndrome is to shift fluid from the interstitial spaces back into circulation. The expected outcome is a reduction in edema, not an overall weight gain. A persistent increase in weight could indicate continued fluid retention rather than treatment effectiveness.
B. Reduction of edema. Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by hypoalbuminemia, which causes fluid to leak from the blood vessels into the tissues, leading to generalized edema. Albumin 25% IV works by increasing oncotic pressure, drawing fluid back into the bloodstream. Once in circulation, excess fluid is excreted by the kidneys, resulting in decreased swelling, especially in the face, abdomen, and lower extremities.
C. Improved caloric intake. Nephrotic syndrome affects fluid balance but does not typically lead to reduced appetite unless complications arise. While improved well-being may lead to better nutritional intake, this is not the primary expected outcome of albumin therapy.
D. Reduction of fever. Fever is not a direct symptom of nephrotic syndrome, though it may occur with infections due to immunosuppression from protein loss. Albumin therapy does not have antipyretic properties, so a reduction in fever would not indicate the medication’s effectiveness in managing nephrotic syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["D","G","H"]
Explanation
A. After a feeding, the nipple is creased. A creased nipple suggests a poor latch, which can lead to ineffective milk removal and increase the risk of recurrent mastitis. A proper latch should be deep, with the baby covering a large portion of the areola, ensuring effective drainage of the breast.
B. The feelings of fatigue continue, but there are no chills, achiness, or dizziness. While the absence of chills, achiness, and dizziness indicates improvement, persistent fatigue may suggest anemia, inadequate hydration, or continued recovery from infection. Fatigue alone does not confirm complete resolution of mastitis.
C. The infant continues to want to nurse all the time. Cluster feeding can be normal during growth spurts, but persistent frequent feeding beyond 2–3 hours may indicate poor milk transfer, low supply, or ineffective latch. Mastitis resolution should result in more effective milk drainage and a more predictable feeding pattern.
D. The temperature taken at home is 99.0° F (37.2° C). A normal temperature suggests that the infection and systemic inflammation have resolved. Mastitis is characterized by fever, so its absence indicates improvement.
E. Pain during feeding lasts for 10 of the 20 minutes of the feed. Persistent pain, especially for half the feeding duration, may indicate ongoing inflammation, nipple trauma, or unresolved infection. Resolution of mastitis should lead to pain-free or minimal discomfort during feeding.
F. Pumping continues on the right side instead of breastfeeding on that side. If the affected breast is still too painful for direct nursing, this suggests ongoing inflammation or poor resolution of mastitis. Ideally, the mother should be able to comfortably breastfeed from both breasts.
G. The red area on her right breast has resolved. The disappearance of redness, swelling, and warmth indicates resolution of localized inflammation and infection, confirming improvement in mastitis.
H. The infant is breastfeeding every 2 to 3 hours for 20 minutes in a variety of positions. Effective breastfeeding frequency and positioning ensure proper milk drainage, reducing the risk of recurrence. Mastitis resolution should allow the mother to comfortably breastfeed at regular intervals with different holds to promote complete emptying of all milk ducts.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Return of the uterus to prepregnancy size. While oxytocin helps contract the uterus, the complete process of involution (uterus returning to prepregnancy size) takes about 6 weeks postpartum. Oxytocin primarily aids in immediate postpartum contraction to reduce bleeding.
B. Expulsion of the placenta. Oxytocin is typically administered after placental delivery to prevent postpartum hemorrhage. If the placenta does not expel naturally, manual removal may be needed. Oxytocin is more effective in promoting uterine tone rather than actively expelling the placenta.
C. Activation of the let-down reflex. Oxytocin plays a role in milk ejection during breastfeeding, but when administered intravenously postpartum, its primary purpose is to stimulate uterine contractions. Natural oxytocin release from breastfeeding supports the let-down reflex, but this is not the main goal of IV oxytocin administration.
D. Stimulation of uterine contractions. IV oxytocin is given postpartum to promote uterine contractions, which help reduce postpartum bleeding by compressing uterine blood vessels. This action is critical in preventing postpartum hemorrhage and ensuring uterine firmness.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
