A patient with pancreatic cancer is admitted for portal hypertension in which he is symptomatic with ascites. Following paracentesis and removal of 7.5 L of ascitic fluid, the nurse should anticipate that the physician will order which of the following medications to assist in maintaining an effective circulating fluid volume?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Complications of portal hypertension include ascites, splenomegaly, and hepatic encephalopathy. Following paracentesis, to remove ascitic fluid, a volume expander such as albumin is usually administered to maintain the effective circulating volume. Lasix and Bumex are diuretics that decrease circulating fluid volume. Epogen stimulates ^{red blood cell production and ultimately increases O}2^{-carrying capacity.}

A Patient with Pancreatic Cancer Is Admitted for Portal Hypertension