RN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment 2019 A with NGN Related

Review RN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment 2019 A with NGN related questions and content

A patient with heart failure has gained 5 pounds in the last 3 days. What is the nurse's priority intervention?

  • A. Restrict the patient's fluid intake.
  • B. Monitor the patient's daily weight.
  • C. Administer diuretics as prescribed.
  • D. Increase the patient's salt intake to promote fluid balance.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor the patient's daily weight. In heart failure, sudden weight gain indicates fluid retention, which can worsen the condition. Monitoring daily weight helps in early detection of fluid accumulation, allowing timely intervention. Restricting fluid intake (choice A) may be necessary but is not the priority at this point. Administering diuretics (choice C) should be done based on healthcare provider orders, not the nurse's independent decision. Increasing salt intake (choice D) is contraindicated in heart failure as it can exacerbate fluid retention.