NCO Fluid and Electrolytes Practice Exam

Administering serum albumin to a client with ascites is expected to lead to a reduction in abdominal girth. Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, often due to liver disease or other conditions that increase hydrostatic pressure or decrease oncotic pressure. Serum albumin is a protein that plays a crucial role in maintaining oncotic pressure in the blood vessels, and its administration can help draw fluid back into the vascular space from the interstitial areas.

As serum albumin increases the oncotic pressure, it can reduce the fluid accumulation in the abdomen, leading to a decrease in abdominal girth as the fluid is redistributed and reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This is an important outcome for clients suffering from ascites, as it can alleviate discomfort and improve overall well-being.

While urinary output, confusion, and serum ammonia levels may be monitored in response to treatment for ascites, the primary and most direct expected outcome following the administration of serum albumin is a decrease in abdominal girth.