Medical Surgical Nursing

(Tina Sui) #1
 With the movement of albumin from the serum to the peritoneal cavity, the
osmotic pressure of the serum decreases.

 This, combined with increased portal pressure, results in movement of fluid into
the peritoneal cavity.

Clinical Manifestations


 Increased abdominal girth and rapid weight gain are common presenting
symptoms of ascites.

 The patient may be short of breath and uncomfortable from the enlarged
abdomen, and

 Striae and distended veins may be visible over the abdominal wall.

 Fluid and electrolyte imbalances are common.
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