HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

What assessment is vital in a patient with a history of chronic kidney disease?

1. Daily weight monitoring

2. Urinalysis every week

3. Dietary fat intake

4. Exercise regimen

The correct answer is: Daily weight monitoring

Daily weight monitoring is vital in a patient with a history of chronic kidney disease (CKD) because it helps assess fluid retention and changes in the patient's overall fluid balance. Patients with CKD often experience complications related to fluid overload due to their kidneys' diminished ability to excrete excess fluid. Regular weight checks can provide early indications of fluid retention, which can be critical for preventing further complications such as hypertension, heart failure, or pulmonary edema. By tracking their weight daily, patients and healthcare providers can implement timely interventions, such as adjustments in diuretics or dietary changes, to manage fluid levels effectively. This practice can significantly improve patient outcomes in CKD management. While other assessments, such as urinalysis, dietary management, and exercise, are important aspects of care for patients with CKD, they do not provide the same immediate feedback on fluid status that weight monitoring does.