A client has been admitted to the cardiac unit with exacerbation of heart failure symptoms. The nurse has given him a nursing diagnosis of decreased cardiac output related to heart failure, as evidenced by a poor ejection fraction, weakness, edema, and decreased urinary output. Which of the following nursing interventions is the most appropriate in this situation?
a. Administer stool softeners as ordered
b. Administer IV fluid boluses to increase urinary output
c. Increase activity by encouraging ambulation
d. Maintain the client in the Trendelenburg position while in bed
a. Administer stool softeners as ordered
rationale: "Administer stool softeners as ordered" is correct. When a client has a nursing diagnosis of decreased cardiac output, the nurse should avoid any activities that would put undue stress on the client's heart. In this situation, the nurse can administer stool softeners so that the client does not have to strain to have a bowel movement, which would place less stress on the heart.
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