QLexNursing

1️⃣ "I know to call my doctor if I gain 3 pounds or more in 2 days." ⚖️

⚖️Why correct: Sudden weight gain in heart failure patients often signals fluid retention from worsening heart function or inadequate diuretic control.

⚖️Standard guideline: Patients are instructed to report a weight gain of 2–3 lb in 1 day or 5 lb in a week.

⚖️Reasoning: Early reporting allows the provider to adjust treatment (increase diuretics, modify diet) before the client develops severe symptoms or needs hospitalization.

⚖️Link to outcome: Prevents rapid decompensation and supports long-term heart failure stability.

2️⃣ "I am eating fewer potato chips and more fruit for snacks.” 🍎

⚖️Why correct: Potato chips are high in sodium, which promotes fluid retention, raises blood pressure, and increases cardiac workload.

⚖️Better choice: Fresh fruit is naturally low in sodium, supports hydration, and provides vitamins and fiber without adding to sodium intake.

⚖️Impact: Reducing high-sodium processed foods is a key dietary change in managing heart failure, helping to prevent worsening edema and pulmonary congestion.

3️⃣ "I am limiting my sodium intake to 2 grams daily." 🧂

⚖️Why correct: The American Heart Association and heart failure guidelines recommend a sodium restriction of about 2,000 mg/day.

⚖️Effect: Low sodium intake helps control blood pressure and prevents excess fluid buildup, reducing strain on the heart.

⚖️Practical steps: This involves reading nutrition labels, avoiding processed/canned foods, and choosing fresh, unprocessed ingredients whenever possible.