Final answer:
The nursing diagnosis indicated by a 3-pound weight gain in a patient with AKI is 'Excess fluid volume'. This reflects fluid retention, a common issue in AKI due to impaired kidney function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nursing diagnosis suggested by a weight gain of 3 pounds over 48 hours in a patient being treated for AKI (Acute Kidney Injury) is likely B) Excess fluid volume. Sudden weight gain, especially in the context of AKI, often indicates fluid retention. AKI can cause disturbances in how the body handles fluid, leading to an accumulation.
The nurse may be concerned about fluid overload, which can exacerbate the condition of the patient, leading to complications such as pulmonary edema or heart failure. A weight gain of 3 pounds is equivalent to approximately 1.36 kilograms, which could represent a significant fluid volume gain since one liter of water weighs approximately one kilogram.
It is important to tackle the root cause of the fluid overload which, in the case of AKI, could be due to the kidneys' reduced ability to filter and eliminate fluids. Management of fluid volume excess includes careful monitoring of intake and output, potentially administering diuretics, and adjusting fluid administration per medical guidance. Moreover, continuous assessment of the patient's respiratory status and other vital signs are crucial to ensure timely intervention if the patient's condition deteriorates.