A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving albumin therapy for hypoalbuminemia. Which assessment finding would require immediate intervention by the nurse?
A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving albumin therapy for hypoalbuminemia. Which assessment finding would require immediate intervention by the nurse?
A. Increased urine output
[2%]
B. Decreased serum albumin level
[14%]
C. Crackles heard on auscultation of the lungs
[70%]
D. Elevated blood pressure
[14%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Adult Health
Lesson
Hematological/Oncological
Client Need
Test Plan
Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies
Related Topic
Blood and Blood Products
Item Type
Item Type
Analysis
Explanation
Choice C is correct. Crackles heard on auscultation of the lungs indicate the presence of fluid in the alveoli or small airways, suggesting pulmonary edema. This finding may indicate fluid overload, a potential complication of Albumin therapy. Immediate intervention is necessary to assess the client's respiratory status, implement interventions to improve oxygenation, and prevent respiratory compromise.
Choice A is incorrect. Increased urine output may indicate improved renal perfusion and function, which can be a positive response to Albumin therapy.
Choice B is incorrect. A decreased serum albumin level is expected in clients with hypoalbuminemia, which is the indication for Albumin therapy.
Choice D is incorrect. Albumin therapy, particularly in cases of hypovolemia or shock, aims to increase intravascular volume and improve tissue perfusion. By restoring plasma volume, Albumin can lead to an increase in blood pressure, which is often necessary to improve organ perfusion and maintain vital organ function.
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Additional Info
✓ Albumin is a major protein found in the blood plasma. It is produced by the liver and serves several important functions in the body including:
- Oncotic Pressure Regulation
- Fluid Balance Maintenance
- Transport of Substances
- Buffering
- Immune Function
- Nutrient Supply
✓ Albumin infusions are commonly indicated in clients with liver cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, burns, and other conditions associated with hypoalbuminemia.
✓ Albumin is one of the most commonly used plasma proteins for therapeutic purposes. In the United States alone, millions of units of albumin are administered annually for various medical indications, including hypoalbuminemia and fluid resuscitation.
