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Precautions for fluid release
The release of ascites is one of the common clinical practices in medicine. The first release of ascites should not exceed 1000ml, and the second and subsequent releases should not exceed 3000ml each. Frequent fluid release can cause rapid changes in pleural cavity, leading to systemic redistribution of blood circulation, resulting in symptoms such as hypotension and rapid pulse rate, which are manifestations of circulatory disorders.
1. Before abdominal puncture, patients with ascites should urinate to prevent injury to the bladder. During the puncture, there may be bleeding at the puncture site or in the abdominal cavity, and the blood vessel course area should be avoided.
2. The rate of fluid release should be controlled during the entire process of puncture or fluid release to prevent symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat. If the patient is anxious, a small amount of sedatives can be used. If there is no actual effect, the abdominal fluid release should be terminated immediately.
3. The rate of fluid release should generally not exceed 3000ml, as excessive fluid release can cause hepatic encephalopathy and hypocalcemia.
4. Many patients with ascites should rest in bed for 24 hours after the puncture to release ascites, and should not get out of bed immediately to prevent the formation of perineal and scrotal edema and leakage at the puncture site.
5. If a patient with ascites develops external leakage, the medical dressing should be changed immediately or an abdominal binder should be used to apply pressure, and the patient should lie flat with the puncture site upwards for 10 minutes. It is not suitable to place a stoma bag to collect ascites at the exposed location to prevent infection.
6. Abdominal abscesses may occur several days after puncture, and they often burst due to a rapid decrease in intra-abdominal pressure, leading to high blood pressure in the abdominal collateral circulation.
The resting environment should be quiet and comfortable. Those who need to get out of bed for activities should do moderate exercises on time to improve energy and digestion. Many patients with ascites affecting respiration should rest in bed and assume a semi-recumbent position.
Patients with ascites or renal dysfunction should control the intake of acetates, with less than 1 gram of table salt per day, and drink less water when urination is reduced. Those who use diuretics should pay attention to eating foods containing calcium ions such as citrus fruits and watermelons. Congee, lotus root powder, and cookies can be prepared to provide. The purpose is to improve the appetite of patients and ensure the intake of nutrients.