Ascites Flashcards
What is ascites?
Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity
T or F:
Cirrhosis, portal HTN, and hepatitis may contribute to ascites
F, cirrhosis and portal HTN only
How does right sided heart failure contribute to ascites?
In short, vessels become congested and cause 3rd spacing
How does fluid retention (specifically at the level of the kidney) relate to ascites?
This will increase blood and fluid volume in vessels
Would alterations in osmotic and hydrostatic pressures be a contributing factor to ascites?
Yesiree
What are the mnfts of ascites?
- Dyspnea
- Abdominal distension
What causes dyspnea in ascites?
The accumulation of fluid is impeding the usual movements of the diaphragm
In mild cases of ascites, what would be used as treatment?
Diuretics
In more severe case of ascites, what would be used as treatment?
Paracentesis and volume expanders
What is paracentesis?
Involves the perforation of a body cavity with a hollow needle to remove fluid or gas
Why is a volume expander required with paracentesis? What is an example of a volume expander commonly used?
Albumin, a solute/protein, is a commonly used volume expander. This will increase the osmotic pressure within the vessels, countering the hydrostatic pressure that would accompany a paracentesis. This prevents fluid from rushing out of the vessels and into the body cavity.
