The nurse assesses a client with cirrhosis and finds 4+ pitting edema of the feet and legs, and massive ascites. Which mechanism contributes to edema and ascites in clients with cirrhosis?
Hyperaldosteronism causing an increased sodium reabsorption in renal tubules.
Decreased renin-angiotensin response related to an increase in renal blood flow.
Decreased portacaval pressure with greater collateral circulation.
Hypoalbuminemia that results in a decreased colloidal oncotic pressure
The Correct Answer is D
A. Hyperaldosteronism causing an increased sodium reabsorption in renal tubules.
Hyperaldosteronism is characterized by an excess of aldosterone, a hormone that regulates sodium and water balance. In cirrhosis, however, sodium retention is often related to other mechanisms such as portal hypertension and hypoalbuminemia, rather than hyperaldosteronism.
B. Decreased renin-angiotensin response related to an increase in renal blood flow.
Cirrhosis is more commonly associated with an activated renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, leading to increased sodium and water retention. The increased renin-angiotensin response is a compensatory mechanism to maintain perfusion in the setting of cirrhosis and does not contribute to decreased renal blood flow.
C. Decreased portacaval pressure with greater collateral circulation.
This statement is not accurate. In cirrhosis, there is typically increased portacaval pressure due to portal hypertension, which can lead to the development of collateral circulation. However, this does not explain the edema and ascites seen in cirrhosis.
D. Hypoalbuminemia that results in a decreased colloidal oncotic pressure.
This is the correct choice. In cirrhosis, liver damage leads to decreased synthesis of albumin. Albumin plays a crucial role in maintaining colloidal oncotic pressure, and when it is decreased (hypoalbuminemia), fluid is more likely to leak out of blood vessels, resulting in edema. The same mechanism contributes to the development of ascites in the abdominal cavity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hypovolemia and electrocardiographic (ECG) changes:
During the diuretic phase of AKI, there is an increased urine output, and the risk of dehydration and hypovolemia is elevated. The nurse should closely monitor fluid balance to prevent dehydration, and ECG changes may occur due to electrolyte imbalances (such as hypokalemia) associated with diuresis.
B. Uremic irritation of mucous membranes and skin surfaces:
Uremic symptoms are more prominent in the oliguric phase of AKI when waste products accumulate in the blood. In the diuretic phase, the focus shifts more toward managing fluid and electrolyte balance.
C. Side effects of total parental nutrition (TPN) and Intralipids:
TPN and Intralipids are not directly related to the diuretic phase of AKI. Monitoring for side effects of TPN and Intralipids may be relevant in other clinical contexts but is not the primary concern in the diuretic phase.
D. Elevated creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN):
Monitoring creatinine and BUN levels is important for assessing kidney function, but in the diuretic phase, the focus shifts to managing fluid and electrolyte balance. The risk of hypovolemia and electrolyte imbalances is more immediate during this phase.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Carcinogens are substances that contain cancerous cells:
This statement is incorrect. Carcinogens are substances that have the potential to cause cancer, but they do not necessarily contain cancerous cells themselves.
B. Substances that change a cell so that it becomes cancerous are potential sources of cancer:
This is the correct answer. Carcinogens are agents that can induce changes in the genetic material of cells, leading to the development of cancer. They can initiate or promote the process of carcinogenesis.
C. Environmental factors such as sunlight and chemicals can cause cancer to spread:
This statement is not accurate. Carcinogens can contribute to the initiation or promotion of cancer, but the spread of cancer (metastasis) involves complex biological processes and is not directly caused by environmental factors.
D. Carcinogens are in the environment and cannot be avoided:
This statement is not accurate. While carcinogens may be present in the environment, efforts can be made to minimize exposure and adopt preventive measures. Avoidance of known carcinogens and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle can contribute to cancer prevention.
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