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 []
Explanation
- Remove some of the baby's clothing – Overdressing can contribute to heat retention and excessive sweating, worsening miliaria. Removing extra layers helps cool the baby and reduce further irritation.
- Clean the area with warm water – Gently cleansing with warm water (without harsh soaps) helps soothe the rash, prevent secondary infections, and remove sweat buildup.
- Alert child protective services – There is no evidence of neglect or abuse. Overdressing is common, especially in new parents who may not be aware of proper temperature regulation for infants.
- Swab the area and send for a culture – Miliaria is a benign and self-limiting condition that does not require a culture unless there are signs of secondary bacterial infection (e.g., pustules, drainage, fever).
- Hold the vaccines – There is no contraindication to routine vaccinations due to heat rash. Vaccinations should proceed as scheduled unless the baby has a moderate to severe illness (e.g., fever, systemic infection).
- Temperature – Overheating can lead to worsening miliaria, dehydration, or even heat exhaustion in infants. Monitoring temperature ensures the baby is not overdressed or exposed to excessive heat.
- Parent’s understanding of education – Since the father was not aware that overdressing contributed to the rash, assessing his understanding of proper clothing choices and environmental temperature regulation is essential for preventing recurrence.
- White blood cell count – Miliaria is not an infectious process, so WBC monitoring is unnecessary unless an infection is suspected.
- Weight – While weight monitoring is important for general growth, it is not a key indicator for assessing heat rash progression.
- Hygiene – Poor hygiene is not the primary cause of miliaria. The issue is blocked sweat glands, not dirt or infection, so monitoring hygiene is not the priority.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. 1+ edema on her lower extremities: Mild edema in the lower extremities is a common finding in the third trimester due to increased blood volume and venous stasis. It is not necessarily a concerning finding unless accompanied by signs of preeclampsia, such as hypertension or proteinuria.
B. Fundal height of 30 cm: At 34 weeks of gestation, the fundal height is typically expected to be within 2 cm of the gestational age (32–36 cm). A measurement of 30 cm is below the expected range and may indicate intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or oligohydramnios. This finding requires further evaluation by the healthcare provider.
C. Weight gain of 2 pounds (0.91 kg): A weight gain of approximately 1–2 pounds (0.45–0.91 kg) per week in the third trimester is within the normal range for pregnancy and does not require immediate intervention.
D. Fetal heart rate of 110 beats/minute: The normal fetal heart rate ranges between 110–160 beats per minute. While 110 bpm is at the lower end of normal, it is still within an acceptable range and does not necessarily indicate fetal distress. However, continued monitoring may be warranted if there are additional concerns.
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