ATI NCLEX PN Predictor Test Related

Review ATI NCLEX PN Predictor Test related questions and content

How should a healthcare provider assess a patient for fluid overload?

  • A. Monitor weight and assess for shortness of breath
  • B. Auscultate lung sounds and monitor blood pressure
  • C. Assess for edema in the extremities
  • D. Assess for jugular venous distension
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correctly, the answer is to monitor weight and assess for shortness of breath when assessing a patient for fluid overload. Weight monitoring is crucial as sudden weight gain can indicate fluid retention. Shortness of breath can be a sign of fluid accumulation in the lungs. While auscultating lung sounds and monitoring blood pressure are important assessments in overall patient care, they may not be specific to fluid overload. Assessing for edema in the extremities is relevant, but it is not as sensitive as monitoring weight for detecting fluid overload. Assessing for jugular venous distension is more specific to assessing fluid status in heart failure rather than a general assessment for fluid overload.