A patient has heart failure.The patient's medications include an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)inhibitor,a beta blocker,and a diuretic.To keep the patient safe,the nurse should:
A) weigh the patient daily using different scales for comparison.
B) monitor daily weight, comparing with the previous day's weight.
C) teach that daily weights are done in hospitals, but not at home.
D) weigh the patient at different times of the day to determine trends.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Daily weights are an important indicator of fluid status.Each kilogram (2.2 lb)of weight gained or lost overnight is equal to 1 L of fluid gained or lost.Weigh heart failure patients daily,as well as other patients who are at high risk for or actually have ECV excess.Obtain the weight at the same time each day with the same calibrated scale after a patient voids.Teach heart failure patients to take and record daily weights at home and to contact their health care provider if weight increases suddenly according to parameters their providers set.Classic research shows that heart failure patients who are hospitalized for decompensated heart failure often experience steady increases in daily weights during the week before hospitalization.

A Patient Has Heart Failure