A home health nurse is teaching a client who has heart failure. Which of the following responses should the nurse identify as an indication that the client understands the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. NSAIDs like ibuprofen can cause fluid retention and worsen heart failure. Clients with heart failure should generally avoid NSAIDs unless prescribed by their healthcare provider. B. Clients with heart failure should weigh themselves at the same time each day, preferably in the morning after voiding, to accurately monitor fluid retention and detect early signs of exacerbation. C. Most heart failure management guidelines recommend a sodium intake of 2,000 mg (2 grams) per day or less, not 4 grams. Excess sodium can exacerbate fluid retention and worsen symptoms. D. This statement demonstrates understanding of safe activity levels. Clients with heart failure should engage in moderate activity that allows conversation (the “talk test”) to avoid overexertion while maintaining cardiovascular health.