For the past three exchanges, a client who is receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) has retained between 250 and 400 mL with each exchange. He has no urine output and has not moved his bowels in 3 days. The returned CAPD fluid is clear. Select the most appropriate action by the nurse at this time.
A)Increase the glucose concentration of the fluid to pull off more fluid.
B)Cap the catheter and notify the physician.
C)Evaluate the patient for possible constipation.
D)Skip the next exchange and allow the fluid to drain.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's lack of bowel movement for 3 days could be causing constipation, which can interfere with the proper drainage of the peritoneal dialysis fluid. Evaluating and addressing constipation is a logical and non-invasive first step to improve fluid removal.

For the Past Three Exchanges, a Client Who Is Receiving