A client with heart failure has gained 2 kg (4.4 lbs) in the past 24 hours. What action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess the client's respiratory status. The first action should be to assess the client's respiratory status as the weight gain could indicate fluid retention leading to pulmonary congestion, a common complication in heart failure. By assessing the respiratory status, the nurse can determine if there are signs of respiratory distress such as increased work of breathing, crackles, or shortness of breath. This assessment will help in identifying any immediate need for interventions such as oxygen therapy or diuretics. Restricting fluid intake (choice A) is important but not the first step. Administering diuretics (choice C) should be based on assessment findings. Notifying the healthcare provider (choice D) can be done after assessing the client's respiratory status.