The nurse assesses the fluid volume status of a 72-year-old client who takes Lasix (furosemide) and Pacerone (amiodarone). Which of the following is the most reliable method for assessing this client's skin turgor?

A) Ask the client to open the mouth and examine the oral mucous membranes for dryness.
B) Examine the skin on the lower legs and look for dry, scaly, or rough skin.
C) Gently pinch the skin on the abdomen to see how long it takes to return to normal.
D) Squeeze the skin on back of hand to see if it remains pinched or is slow to return to normal.


Ans: C
Skin turgor should be checked over protected areas, such as the sternum or abdomen. The use of diuretics can exacerbate xerosis that older adults may have. Diuretics and amiodarone increase the risk for photosensitivity.

Nursing

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