Which nursing measure would help relieve symptoms in a patient with esophageal cancer who is experiencing weight gain and oliguria?

Administering furosemide is the appropriate nursing measure for a patient with esophageal cancer experiencing weight gain and oliguria. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that promotes the excretion of sodium and water through urine, helping to reduce fluid overload that may lead to weight gain. In the context of oliguria, which indicates low urine output, the use of furosemide can effectively stimulate kidney function and increase urine production, thereby addressing both weight gain from fluid retention and the issue of limited urine output.

This intervention can provide symptomatic relief by helping to alleviate discomfort associated with fluid overload, such as swelling and increased strain on the cardiovascular system. The careful administration of furosemide must be monitored, however, as it can lead to electrolyte imbalances, so ongoing assessment is essential.

Other options, such as administering water supplements or encouraging fluid intake, could exacerbate the patient’s symptoms by potentially increasing fluid retention, which is counterproductive given the current issues. Advising strict bed rest does not directly address the underlying problem of fluid retention and oliguria, nor does it provide any therapeutic benefit related to the patient’s immediate symptoms.