NCLEX: A 63-year-old client with chronic kidney disease is being evaluated for nursing care related to renal and cardiac…

Nutrition Basic Care and Comfort

Case Study

A 63-year-old client with chronic kidney disease is being evaluated for nursing care related to renal and cardiac diet patterns. Assessment data include the client has heart failure, 2+ edema, and a 2 kg weight gain in 24 hours. Which assessment approach should the nurse use first?

Question

A. Begin invasive procedures before any focused assessment.
B. Use only the chart from admission without current data.
C. Defer assessment until all medications are administered.
D. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.

Rationale

Correct answer: D. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.

Rationale: Assessment begins with stability screening and focused data collection before invasive or delayed actions.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: Renal and cardiac diet patterns