Final answer:
The first action the nurse should take is to check the client's blood pressure and serum bicarbonate levels, as these can provide important clinical information about the patient's fluid and electrolyte balance during CAPD.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse is caring for a client who is receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and notes that the urine output flow is 100 ml less than the input flow. The first action the nurse should implement is to check the client's blood pressure and serum bicarbonate. Fluctuations in fluid balance can impact blood pressure and electrolyte levels, which are critical to assess in patients undergoing CAPD. Checking such parameters can help the nurse determine if the discrepancy in fluid balance is due to issues with the dialysis process or is related to the patient's clinical condition. If the blood pressure is stable and the electrolyte values are within an acceptable range, then the nurse can consider other steps, such as changing the patient's position, which may facilitate the flow and drainage of the dialysate. If issues persist, the nurse may proceed with further interventions under the direct supervision of a registered nurse. However, routine monitoring should always be continued, and any concerns should be documented and reported.