A client with ascites due to cirrhosis has increasing shortness of breath and abdominal pain. The health care provider requests that the nurse prepare the client for a paracentesis. Which nursing actions would the nurse implement prior to the procedure? Select all that apply.

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11ecbb05_c9ac_5ee5_b433_19e67fde5f2d_MD0009_00 Paracentesis is performed to remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity or to collect a specimen of ascitic fluid for diagnostic testing. Paracentesis is not a permanent solution for treating ascites and is performed only if the client is experiencing impaired breathing or pain due to ascites. Prior to a paracentesis, nursing actions include: Verify that the client received necessary information to give consent and witness informed consent Instruct the client to void to prevent puncturing the bladder (Option E) Assess the client's abdominal girth, weight, and vital signs (Option C) Place the client in the high Fowler position or as upright as possible (Option D) (Option A) Paracentesis is an invasive procedure requiring delivery of informed consent by the health care provider (HCP). The HCP explains the benefits and risks of the procedure. The nurse's role is to witness informed consent and verify that it has occurred. (Option B) NPO status is not required for paracentesis, which is often performed at the bedside or in an HCP's office using only a local anesthetic. Educational objective: Paracentesis is an invasive procedure for removing fluid from the abdominal cavity to improve symptoms or collect a specimen for testing. After informed consent has been obtained, the client should be encouraged to void to prevent bladder trauma, be positioned upright, and have a set of baseline vitals, weight, and abdominal circumference measurements collected before the procedure begins.

A Client with Ascites Due to Cirrhosis Has Increasing Shortness