Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 71%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and reports having shortness of breath and swelling in his lower extremities. Upon assessment, the nurse notes the client has crackles in his lungs and an elevated blood pressure. The nurse should suspect which of the following based on the client's manifestations?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
ESRD causes hypervolemia, leading to edema, pulmonary crackles, and hypertension from fluid overload. Hypovolemia causes hypotension, hyperkalemia affects muscles, and hyponatremia causes neurological symptoms, not fluid-related signs.