Question

While caring for a client who has esophageal varices, which nursing intervention is most important for the registered nurse (RN) to implement?

Monitor infusing IV fluids and any replacement blood products.
Prepare for esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD).
Maintain the client on strict bedrest.
Insert a nasogastric tube (NGT) for intermittent suction.

Answer 1

The most important intervention for an RN caring for a client with esophageal varices is to monitor infusing IV fluids and blood products to maintain hemodynamic stability and promptly address any signs of bleeding.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a client who has esophageal varices, the most important nursing intervention for the registered nurse (RN) to implement is to monitor infusing IV fluids and any replacement blood products. This is critical because maintaining hemodynamic stability is the priority for patients with esophageal varices at risk for bleeding. Intense surveillance allows the nurse to detect and respond to any signs of bleeding, which can be life-threatening. While other interventions such as preparing for an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), maintaining strict bedrest, and inserting a nasogastric tube (NGT) for intermittent suction are important, they come after ensuring that the patient is stable and vital signs are within normal parameters.