While conducting a physical assessment, a client with cirrhosis of the liver reports to the nurse having had a 5 lb (2.3 kg) weight gain within the last week. Which assessment finding correlates with the client's comment?
Decreased bowel sounds.
Increased respiratory rate.
Increased abdominal girth.
Decreased level of consciousness.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Decreased bowel sounds may be associated with cirrhosis due to altered digestion but do not directly correlate with weight gain.
Choice B reason: An increased respiratory rate can be a sign of many conditions, including fluid overload, but it is not a specific indicator of weight gain due to fluid accumulation.
Choice C reason: Increased abdominal girth is a common sign of ascites, which is fluid accumulation in the abdomen often seen in cirrhosis, correlating with the reported weight gain.
Choice D reason: Decreased level of consciousness may indicate hepatic encephalopathy in cirrhosis patients but does not directly correlate with the weight gain described.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A,B,C,D,E
Explanation
Choice A reason: The first step is to document the concerns for an accurate record and report them to the charge nurse to address the issue internally within the unit.
Choice B reason: If the issue is not resolved at the unit level, the next step is to discuss the matter with the physician directly as a group, which can lead to a resolution without escalating the situation.
Choice C reason: Should the problem persist, submitting a written report to the Director of Nursing is appropriate to involve higher management and seek further action.
Choice D reason: If the issue remains unresolved after involving the Director of Nursing, contacting the hospital's Chief of Medical Services is the next step to escalate the matter within the hospital's administrative structure.
Choice E reason: As a last resort, if all internal avenues have been exhausted and the problem persists, filing a formal complaint with the state medical board is necessary to address potential violations of professional conduct.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram is important for monitoring cardiac function, it is not as frequent or specific as potassium monitoring for hyperkalemia management.
Choice B reason: Evaluating glucose levels is necessary due to the risk of hypoglycemia from insulin administration, but the priority is monitoring potassium levels in hyperkalemia.
Choice C reason: Monitoring intake and output is part of fluid balance management but is secondary to the critical need to monitor serum potassium levels.
Choice D reason: Frequent assessment of serum potassium levels is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of the dextrose and insulin therapy in lowering potassium levels.
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