A patient with severe ascites has undergone abdominal paracentesis with removal of 2 liters of fluid.The nurse anticipates administration of which product?
A)2 liters of normal saline
B)4 liters of lactated ringer's solution
C)16 to 20 grams of albumin
D)6 to 10 units of platelets

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Severe ascites is often caused by hypoalbuminemia, which can result in diminished oncotic pressure leading to fluid accumulation in the peritoneal cavity. Administration of albumin can help restore oncotic pressure and prevent further fluid accumulation. Normal saline or lactated Ringer's solution would not address the underlying hypoalbuminemia, and platelets would not be indicated in this situation unless there was also a coagulation disorder.

A Patient with Severe Ascites Has Undergone Abdominal Paracentesis with Removal