a. Hypovolemia refers to a decrease in the volume of blood plasma within the body. Conditions that may lead to the development of hypovolemia include excessive fluid loss due to vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, or bleeding. Additionally, conditions such as kidney disease, heart failure, and the use of diuretic medications may also contribute to hypovolemia.
b. The amount of patient fluid loss can be determined through various methods, including daily weight measurements, urine output, and laboratory tests such as blood electrolyte levels.
c. Hypovolemia and third-space fluid shifts are related in that both conditions can result in a decrease in circulating blood volume. Third-space fluid shifts refer to the movement of fluid from the bloodstream into the interstitial spaces, such as in cases of edema or ascites.
d. The major difference between hypovolemia and third-space fluid shift is the location of the fluid loss. In hypovolemia, the fluid loss occurs from the intravascular space, while in third-space fluid shift, the fluid moves into the interstitial spaces.
e. Conditions that can result in third-space fluid shifts include burns, liver disease, heart failure, and kidney disease.
a. The patient’s history of congestive heart failure (CHF) indicates she is at risk for hypervolemia. Other risk factors for hypervolemia include kidney disease, liver disease, and the use of medications such as corticosteroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
b. Dill pickles and sauerkraut are high in sodium, which can impact the patient’s fluid volume by increasing fluid retention and potentially exacerbating hypervolemia.
c. Excessive interstitial extracellular fluid (ECF) can be observed in body areas such as the legs, feet, and ankles, as well as in the abdomen in cases of ascites.
d. The patient is on a strict fluid restriction while hospitalized to prevent further fluid overload and exacerbation of her CHF.
e. Nursing interventions used while a patient is on fluid restriction may include monitoring daily weights, assessing for signs of dehydration or fluid overload, providing oral hygiene, and offering small amounts of ice chips or sugar-free gum to help alleviate thirst. Additionally, the nurse should educate the patient and family members about the importance of fluid restriction and provide emotional support to help the patient cope with the restriction.