Which statement by the nurse explains ascites?
Inflammatory molecules have increased the permeability of the abdominal capillaries
Low aldosterone levels have caused fluid retention and peritoneal edema
The liver is not manufacturing clotting factors to prevent bleeding in the peritoneum
The body is experiencing a fluid imbalance related to changing osmotic pressures
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Ascites results from increased permeability of peritoneal capillaries, often due to inflammatory molecules like cytokines in conditions such as liver cirrhosis or portal hypertension. This allows plasma proteins and fluid to leak into the peritoneal cavity, causing fluid accumulation. This statement accurately describes the pathophysiology of ascites in liver-related disorders.
Choice B reason: Low aldosterone levels do not cause ascites; instead, high aldosterone in liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis) promotes sodium and water retention, exacerbating fluid accumulation. This statement is inaccurate, as secondary hyperaldosteronism due to reduced liver metabolism of aldosterone is a key factor in ascites development.
Choice C reason: The liver’s failure to produce clotting factors can lead to bleeding tendencies, like variceal hemorrhage, but this does not directly cause ascites. Ascites is driven by fluid leakage from capillaries, not bleeding. This statement is inaccurate, as clotting factor deficiency is unrelated to peritoneal fluid accumulation.
Choice D reason: While fluid imbalance contributes to ascites, the primary mechanism involves portal hypertension and capillary permeability, not just osmotic pressure changes. This statement is overly vague and less accurate than the specific role of inflammatory molecules increasing capillary leakage in the peritoneal cavity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Obesity significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus by promoting insulin resistance. Excess adipose tissue, particularly visceral fat, releases free fatty acids and cytokines, impairing glucose uptake in cells. This leads to hyperglycemia and beta-cell dysfunction, with obese individuals having a 5-10 times higher risk of developing this condition.
Choice B reason: Hypothyroidism is less directly linked to obesity than type 2 diabetes. While it can cause weight gain due to slowed metabolism, obesity is not a primary risk factor for hypothyroidism. Thyroid dysfunction arises more from autoimmune or iodine-related causes, making it a less likely complication compared to diabetes.
Choice C reason: Osteoporosis risk is not strongly associated with obesity. Excess body weight may increase bone density due to mechanical loading, but it does not directly cause bone loss. Obesity-related inflammation may have minor effects, but type 2 diabetes poses a far greater risk due to metabolic changes.
Choice D reason: Migraine headaches are not a primary complication of obesity. While obesity may exacerbate migraines through inflammatory pathways or comorbidities like sleep apnea, the association is weaker than with type 2 diabetes. Metabolic and insulin-related effects of obesity make diabetes the most significant and direct risk.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Kidney disease does not directly cause constipation. While it may cause fluid imbalances or medication side effects, it is not a primary factor in assessing constipation. Bowel function is more influenced by diet, activity, and medications, making kidney disease irrelevant as a routine assessment tool for this condition.
Choice B reason: Dietary intake, particularly low fiber or inadequate hydration, is a primary cause of constipation. Assessing fiber, fluid, and food types helps identify contributing factors, as low-fiber diets slow intestinal transit. This tool is essential in evaluating constipation, as diet directly impacts stool consistency and frequency.
Choice C reason: Routine physical activity affects bowel motility, as sedentary lifestyles slow peristalsis, contributing to constipation. Assessing activity levels identifies whether lack of movement is a factor. This tool is critical, as exercise promotes intestinal transit, making it a key component in constipation assessment.
Choice D reason: Medication history is vital, as drugs like opioids, anticholinergics, or calcium supplements can cause constipation by slowing gut motility or altering fluid balance. Assessing medications identifies potential causes, making this tool essential for a comprehensive constipation evaluation to guide appropriate interventions.
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