A patient is admitted with symptoms of a recent weight gain, 3+ pitting edema of his feet, distended neck veins, and crackles in his lungs. Which of the following nursing diagnoses is most appropriate for this patient’s plan of care?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Excess fluid volume. This patient is presenting with signs and symptoms of fluid overload, such as weight gain, pitting edema, distended neck veins, and crackles in the lungs. These indicate an excess of fluid in the body. Nursing care for this patient should focus on managing fluid balance. A: Deficient fluid volume is incorrect because the patient is showing signs of fluid overload, not deficit. B: Imbalanced nutrition more than body requirements is incorrect as the symptoms described are related to fluid volume, not nutrition intake. D: Noncompliance is irrelevant to the patient's current symptoms and does not address the underlying issue of fluid overload.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 0.90% sodium chloride. When administering a hypotonic solution like 0.45% sodium chloride or 5% dextrose in water, water moves into the cells causing them to swell. This can exacerbate symptoms of hypovolemia such as low blood pressure and decreased perfusion. However, 0.90% sodium chloride is an isotonic solution and will not further exacerbate hypovolemic symptoms. Choices A, B, and D are hypotonic solutions that can worsen hypovolemic symptoms by causing cellular swelling.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Comparing the patient’s present weight with her last weight. This is the most direct and reliable method to assess volume depletion due to fluid loss. By comparing the patient's current weight with her last weight, you can easily determine if there has been a significant decrease in weight indicating fluid loss and potential hypovolemia. Explanation of why other choices are incorrect: A: Measuring the quantity and specific gravity of her urine output - This method may provide some information about hydration status, but it is not as direct or reliable as comparing weight changes. B: Taking her blood pressure - While blood pressure can indicate hypovolemia, it may not provide immediate insight into volume depletion caused by diarrhea. D: Administering the oral water test - This test is not commonly used to assess volume depletion and may not be as effective or quick as comparing weight changes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B (10-15 mmHg) because this range is considered safe and effective for suctioning in most cases. Lower suction pressures (such as 2-5 mmHg) may not effectively clear secretions, while higher pressures (20-25 mmHg) can cause tissue damage. Choice C (5-10 mmHg) falls within the safe range but may not provide enough suction for effective clearance. Therefore, the optimal suction pressure for James using the portable suction unit at home is 10-15 mmHg.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cheese. Cheese is high in sodium and should be avoided on a low-sodium diet. Sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues. Apples, chicken, and broccoli are all low in sodium and can be included in a low-sodium diet. Cheese is the only option that is high in sodium, making it the correct choice to avoid.