What intervention would be included in the care plan for a client with heart failure who has gained 20 pounds in 3 weeks?

Prepare for the NCO Fluid and Electrolytes Exam with comprehensive questions, flashcards, and explanations to succeed in your exam. Ace your exam today!

In managing a patient with heart failure who has experienced a significant weight gain of 20 pounds over a period of three weeks, incorporating multiple interventions is vital for effective care. This weight gain is typically indicative of fluid retention, which is common in heart failure due to the heart's decreased ability to pump effectively.

Utilizing diuretics is crucial as they help reduce the excess fluid in the body, thus alleviating symptoms related to fluid overload, such as edema and shortness of breath. Implementing a low-salt diet is equally important as sodium intake can lead to fluid retention. By limiting salt, the patient can potentially reduce their fluid accumulation and improve their overall heart function.

Additionally, daily weight checks are an essential part of the care plan. Regular monitoring allows for quick identification of further weight gain, indicating worsening fluid retention. This can prompt timely interventions, such as adjusting diuretic dosages or dietary modifications, to prevent complications.

Therefore, incorporating diuretics, a low-salt diet, and daily weight checks provides a comprehensive approach to addressing the client's condition, making it necessary to include all these interventions in the care plan.

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