Posted: September 9th, 2016

If you suspected Clive was dehydrated identify and describe two pieces of observed data you would look for that would contribute to your assessment of his hydration status?

Clive is a thin and pale looking 46 year old man who has a history of cardiac failure and severe cardiomyopathy. Clive lives alone in a small unit, receives a disability pension and community nurses visit weekly. Clive is oxygen dependant, uses nasal prongs on 2 litres per minute at all times and has been on the waiting list for a heart transplant for almost 12 months. He uses an extension cord from his oxygen concentrator to the nasal prongs to allow him mobility. Clive takes many medications to manage his chronic illness symptoms. Clive has been advised to limit his fluid intake to 1000mls per day due to his cardiac failure. To manage his chronic disease and the medications he takes he needs to self-monitor his signs and symptoms of fluid balance and contact his health management team if he notices problems. Despite his health issues Clive manages to live independently getting through all his self care and household tasks by spreading them throughout the day and taking frequent rests and naps.
Answer the following questions referring to the case of Clive above. [10 marks]
Questions
14. Briefly explain how Clive’s health issues are likely to have had an impact on his weight and nutritional status in the last twelve months. [2 marks]
15. If you suspected Clive was dehydrated identify and describe two pieces of observed data you would look for that would contribute to your assessment of his hydration status? [2 marks]
16. If Clive’s hydration status reflected he was overloaded, identify and describe two pieces of observed data that you would expect to find that would indicate this. [2 marks]
17. Identify what disease related diet recommendations Clive is likely to be following given the scenario information. [1 mark]
18. What simple and economical food options would you recommend to Clive that will meet his nutrition needs and not exacerbate his disease? [3 marks]