What should the nurse assess first for a client who develops new symptoms of fluid retention while on medication for heart failure?

In the context of a client developing new symptoms of fluid retention while on medication for heart failure, assessing fluid intake and dietary habits is paramount. This is because heart failure management heavily relies on monitoring fluid balance to prevent exacerbation of the condition.

Patients with heart failure often need to adhere to specific dietary restrictions, particularly regarding sodium intake and fluid allowance, to manage their symptoms effectively. By evaluating the client's current fluid intake and dietary habits, the nurse can identify any behaviors that may contribute to fluid overload, such as increased salt consumption or excessive fluid intake, which can exacerbate fluid retention.

Other assessments, such as serum potassium levels, blood sugar levels, and heart rate variability, are important in their own contexts, but they do not directly address the immediate concerns related to fluid management in heart failure patients. Focusing on fluid intake and dietary habits allows for early identification of potential issues and the opportunity to adjust the care plan accordingly.