The nurse is assessing a patient's mouth and notes white, milk curd-appearing plaques attached to the oral mucosa. Which condition is present?

A. Decrease the client's fluid intake: In cirrhosis with ascites, the liver's ability to regulate fluid balance is impaired. Decreasing fluid intake helps prevent further accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (ascites).

B. Increase the client's sodium intake: Sodium intake should be restricted in patients with cirrhosis and ascites to reduce fluid retention and prevent worsening edema and ascites.

C. Decrease the client's carbohydrate intake: Carbohydrate intake is generally not restricted in cirrhosis unless there are concerns about hyperglycemia. It's important to maintain an adequate diet for the patient.

D. Increase the client's saturated fat intake: Increasing saturated fats is not appropriate in cirrhosis, as it can worsen liver damage and contribute to further complications. A balanced, low-fat diet is recommended instead.

A. Lubricates the intestinal wall and softens stool: This describes the action of lubricant laxatives, such as mineral oil, not stimulant laxatives.

B. Draws water into the bowel to facilitate the passage of feces: This describes osmotic laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol or lactulose.

C. Increases bulk and stimulates peristalsis: This describes bulk-forming laxatives, like psyllium, which absorb water and increase stool size.

D. Irritates the intestine directly, promoting peristalsis and evacuation: This is the correct mechanism for stimulant laxatives, such as bisacodyl and senna. They stimulate the nerve endings in the intestinal lining, leading to increased bowel movement activity.