Final answer:
Considering the low total protein level and intravascular dehydration in the presence of third spacing and edema, the provider is most likely to order 5% albumin to restore colloid osmotic pressure and improve fluid balance within the patient's intravascular space.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse is assessing a patient noted to have third spacing and edema of the hands and feet at +3, and although the patient exhibits signs and symptoms of intravascular dehydration, the patient's lab results indicate a total protein level of 4.6 g/dL. Due to the low protein level and the condition of the patient, the provider will likely order an intravenous solution that can increase the colloid osmotic pressure and improve the intravascular dehydration. The best answer from the given options is c. 5% albumin, as albumin solutions are colloid solutions that increase the colloid osmotic (oncotic) pressure and help to pull fluid back into the blood vessels from the tissues, thereby alleviating the edema and improving the intravascular volume status. Solutions like normal saline and Lactated Ringer's are isotonic and may not adequately address the low albumin levels causing the patient's third spacing. Whole blood is not indicated as the patient is not suffering from a lack of blood volume but rather from a redistribution of fluid due to low protein levels.