In which scenario should a nurse administer albumin following paracentesis?

Albumin administration following paracentesis is indicated when a significant volume of fluid, specifically more than 5 liters, is drained. This is primarily due to the fact that large-volume paracentesis can lead to shifts in the intravascular volume and albumin is essential in maintaining oncotic pressure in the blood vessels.

When more than 5 liters of fluid is removed, there is a risk of hypotension and fluid shifts that can result in complications such as cardiovascular collapse. Administering albumin helps to restore oncotic pressure, stabilize hemodynamics, and prevent potential complications associated with the abrupt removal of a large volume of ascitic fluid.

The other scenarios listed, such as the amount of fluid drained being less than 5 liters, the presence of suspected infection, or signs of dehydration, do not specifically warrant the administration of albumin post-paracentesis as urgency or necessity may vary based on the clinical context and the volume of fluid removed.