Questions: A nurse at a long-term care facility is completing the nutrition assessment of a client who has just moved to the facility. After determining the client's venous filling and emptying each take approximately 10 seconds, the nurse would perform further assessments related to what health problem? Ascites Malnutrition Fluid volume deficit Third spacing

The answer is: Fluid volume deficit.

Explanation for each option:

1. Ascites: This condition involves the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, often due to liver disease, heart failure, or cancer. It is not directly related to venous filling and emptying times.

2. Malnutrition: While malnutrition can affect overall health and may indirectly influence circulatory efficiency, it is not specifically indicated by prolonged venous filling and emptying times.

3. Fluid volume deficit: Prolonged venous filling and emptying times can indicate a fluid volume deficit, as this condition can lead to decreased blood volume and poor circulation, affecting the time it takes for veins to fill and empty.

4. Third spacing: This refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space, which can be related to fluid imbalances. However, it is not specifically indicated by the venous filling and emptying times alone.

In summary, the prolonged venous filling and emptying times suggest a potential fluid volume deficit, prompting the nurse to perform further assessments related to this health problem.