Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) PN-RN Practice Test

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What specific dietary restriction is crucial for patients with cirrhosis and severe ascites?

Calcium
Sodium
Potassium
Magnesium

The correct answer is: Sodium

Sodium restriction is crucial for patients with cirrhosis and severe ascites because sodium plays a significant role in fluid retention. In patients with cirrhosis, the liver's ability to produce proteins, such as albumin, is impaired, leading to decreased oncotic pressure and resulting in ascites, which is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. When excessive sodium is ingested, it can exacerbate this problem by causing the body to retain more fluid, worsening the ascites. Restricting sodium helps manage fluid balance and reduce swelling, thereby alleviating the discomfort associated with ascites and preventing potential complications. Typically, healthcare providers recommend a low-sodium diet to help control fluid retention in these patients, making monitoring sodium intake a vital aspect of their care.