Final Answer:
The nurse monitors the hematocrit levels in a live kidney donor postoperatively primarily **A. To assess for bleeding**.
Step-by-step explanation:
Monitoring the hematocrit levels is essential in the postoperative care of a live kidney donor to assess for bleeding. Hematocrit is a measure of the proportion of blood that is cellular, and a decrease in hematocrit may indicate bleeding or hemorrhage.
Live kidney donation involves surgical procedures, and assessing hematocrit levels helps the healthcare team identify and address any potential postoperative bleeding or complications.
A decline in hematocrit levels could be indicative of ongoing bleeding, and prompt intervention is crucial to prevent complications such as hypovolemic shock. By closely monitoring hematocrit, the nurse can detect changes early and collaborate with the healthcare team to implement appropriate interventions, which may include blood transfusions or surgical exploration to address any bleeding source.
While options B, C, and D represent various health conditions, monitoring hematocrit specifically focuses on assessing for bleeding in the postoperative period. It is a critical component of the overall postoperative care plan for live kidney donors, ensuring their safety and well-being following the surgical procedure.
In summary, the nurse's rationale for monitoring hematocrit levels in a live kidney donor is primarily to assess for bleeding, allowing for early detection and intervention to address potential postoperative complications related to hemorrhage.