An 88-year-old client has glomerulonephritis, is quite edematous, and has an order for large doses of diuretics. Before administering the first dose, the most appropriate action by the nurse would be to
A) call the physician to clarify the order.
B) educate the client as to the drug's effects.
C) have the unlicensed assistive personnel take a set of vital signs.
D) plan to administer the diuretics evenly spaced throughout the day.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The diuretic will cause fluid volume shifting and hopefully, the excretion of extra fluid from the client. However, diuresis in an older client must be handled carefully as they are not able to tolerate sudden shifts in vascular volume. Before administering a large dose of a diuretic to this client, the nurse should clarify the order. Of course, option b is always a correct answer, and a set of vital signs would help the nurse monitor and assess the client's reaction. Depending on how the diuretics are ordered, option d may or may not be appropriate.

An 88-Year-Old Client Has Glomerulonephritis, Is Quite Edematous, and Has