A client with uremia is experiencing uremic frost. Which action should the nurse implement?

A client with uremia is experiencing uremic frost. Which action should the nurse implement?

• A. Provide frequent skin care and apply lotion
• B. Evaluate bony prominences for breakdown
• C. Explain that hemodialysis is needed
• D. Monitor the client's oral fluid intake

Answer: (C)

Uremic frost signals severe uremia from kidney failure, where waste products like urea accumulate in the blood and can crystallize on the skin. The priority action is to remove these toxins, which is achieved with dialysis. Explaining that hemodialysis is needed directly addresses the underlying problem and initiates the appropriate treatment plan. While skin care is helpful for comfort, it does not treat the toxin buildup causing the frost. Evaluating bony prominences or monitoring fluid intake don’t address the need to rapidly reduce urea and other wastes through dialysis.

Uremic frost signals severe uremia from kidney failure, where waste products like urea accumulate in the blood and can crystallize on the skin. The priority action is to remove these toxins, which is achieved with dialysis. Explaining that hemodialysis is needed directly addresses the underlying problem and initiates the appropriate treatment plan. While skin care is helpful for comfort, it does not treat the toxin buildup causing the frost. Evaluating bony prominences or monitoring fluid intake don’t address the need to rapidly reduce urea and other wastes through dialysis.