Chapter 49: Assessment and Management of Patients With Hepatic Disorders

After undergoing a liver biopsy, a client should be placed in which position? Prone position Supine position Right lateral decubitus position Semi-Fowler's position

Right lateral decubitus position After a liver biopsy, the client is placed on the right side (right lateral decubitus position) to exert pressure on the liver and prevent bleeding. Semi-Fowler's position and the supine and prone positions wouldn't achieve this goal.

In what location would the nurse palpate for the liver? Right lower quadrant Left lower quadrant Right upper quadrant Left upper quadrant

Right upper quadrant The liver may be palpable in the right upper quadrant. A palpable liver presents as a firm, sharp ridge with a smooth surface.

A client has just been diagnosed with hepatitis A. On assessment, the nurse expects to note: severe abdominal pain radiating to the shoulder. anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. eructation and constipation. abdominal ascites.

anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. Early hallmark signs and symptoms of hepatitis A include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. Abdominal pain may occur but doesn't radiate to the shoulder. Eructation and constipation are common in gallbladder disease, not hepatitis A. Abdominal ascites is a sign of advanced hepatic disease, not an early sign of hepatitis A.

A client has a blockage of the passage of bile from a stone in the common bile duct. What type of jaundice does the nurse suspect this client has? Obstructive jaundice Hepatocellular jaundice Hemolytic jaundice Cirrhosis of the liver

Obstructive jaundice Obstructive jaundice is caused by a block in the passage of bile between the liver and intestinal tract. Hemolytic jaundice is caused by excess destruction of red blood cells. Hepatocellular jaundice is caused by liver disease. Cirrhosis of the liver would be an example of hepatocellular jaundice.

A client is actively bleeding from esophageal varices. Which medication would the nurse most expect to be administered to this client? Octreotide Spironolactone Propranolol Lactulose

Octreotide In an actively bleeding client, medications are administered initially because they can be obtained and administered quicker than other therapies. Octreotide (Sandostatin) causes selective splanchnic vasoconstriction by inhibiting glucagon release and is used mainly in the management of active hemorrhage. Propranolol (Inderal) and nadolol (Corgard), beta-blocking agents that decrease portal pressure, are the most common medications used both to prevent a first bleeding episode in clients with known varices and to prevent rebleeding. Beta-blockers should not be used in acute variceal hemorrhage, but they are effective prophylaxis against such an episode. Spironolactone (Aldactone), an aldosterone-blocking agent, is most often the first-line therapy in clients with ascites from cirrhosis. Lactulose (Cephulac) is administered to reduce serum ammonia levels in clients with hepatic encephalopathy.

Gynecomastia is a common side effect of which of the following diuretics? Vasopressin Nitroglycerin (IV) Furosemide Spironolactone

Spironolactone Gynecomastia is a common side effect caused by spironolactone. Vasopressin is used for bleeding esophageal varices and is not a diuretic. Nitroglycerin (IV) may be used with vasopressin to counteract the effects of vasoconstriction from the vasopressin.

A nurse is caring for a client with cirrhosis. The nurse assesses the client at noon and discovers that the client is difficult to arouse and has an elevated serum ammonia level. The nurse should suspect which situation? The client is relaxed and not in pain. The client is avoiding the nurse. The client didn't take his morning dose of lactulose (Cephulac). The client's hepatic function is decreasing.

The client's hepatic function is decreasing. The decreased level of consciousness caused by an increased serum ammonia level indicates hepatic disfunction. If the client didn't take his morning dose of lactulose, he wouldn't have elevated ammonia levels and decreased level of consciousness this soon. These assessment findings don't indicate that the client is relaxed or avoiding the nurse.

A client is admitted for suspected GI disease. Assessment data reveal muscle wasting, a decrease in chest and axillary hair, and increased bleeding tendency. The nurse suspects the client has: appendicitis. peptic ulcer disease. cirrhosis. cholelithiasis.

cirrhosis. Muscle wasting, a decrease in chest and axillary hair, and increased bleeding tendencies are all symptoms of cirrhosis. The client may also have mild fever, edema, abdominal pain, and an enlarged liver. Clients with peptic ulcer disease complain of a dull, gnawing epigastric pain that's relieved by eating. Appendicitis is characterized by a periumbilical pain that moves to the right lower quadrant and rebound tenderness. Cholelithiasis is characterized by severe abdominal pain that presents several hours after a large meal.

Which type of jaundice seen in adults is the result of increased destruction of red blood cells? Obstructive Hepatocellular Hemolytic Nonobstructive

Hemolytic Hemolytic jaundice results because, although the liver is functioning normally, it cannot excrete the bilirubin as quickly as it is formed. Obstructive and hepatocellular jaundice are results of liver disease. Nonobstructive jaundice occurs with hepatitis.

A client with carcinoma of the head of the pancreas is scheduled for surgery. Which of the following should a nurse administer to the client before surgery? Potassium Vitamin B Oral bile acids Vitamin K

Vitamin K Clients with carcinoma of the head of the pancreas typically require vitamin K before surgery to correct a prothrombin deficiency. Potassium would be given only if the client's serum potassium levels were low. Oral bile acids are not prescribed for a client with carcinoma of the head of the pancreas; they are given to dissolve gallstones. Vitamin B has no implications in the surgery.

When performing a physical examination on a client with cirrhosis, a nurse notices that the client's abdomen is enlarged. Which of the following interventions should the nurse consider? Provide the client with nonprescription laxatives. Measure abdominal girth according to a set routine. Ask the client about food intake. Report the condition to the physician immediately.

Measure abdominal girth according to a set routine. If the abdomen appears enlarged, the nurse measures it according to a set routine. The nurse reports any change in mental status or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding immediately. It is not essential for the client to take laxatives unless prescribed. The client's food intake does not affect the size of the abdomen in case of cirrhosis.

Ammonia, the major etiologic factor in the development of encephalopathy, inhibits neurotransmission. Increased levels of ammonia are damaging to the body. The largest source of ammonia is from: Severe infections and high fevers. Excess potassium loss subsequent to prolonged use of diuretics. Excessive diuresis and dehydration. The digestion of dietary and blood proteins.

The digestion of dietary and blood proteins. Circumstances that increase serum ammonia levels tend to aggravate or precipitate hepatic encephalopathy. The largest source of ammonia is the enzymatic and bacterial digestion of dietary and blood proteins in the GI tract. Ammonia from these sources increases as a result of GI bleeding (i.e., bleeding esophageal varices, chronic GI bleeding), a high-protein diet, bacterial infection, or uremia.

A client with acute liver failure exhibits confusion, a declining level of consciousness, and slowed respirations. The nurse finds him very difficult to arouse. The diagnostic information which best explains the client's behavior is: subnormal clotting factors and platelet count. subnormal serum glucose and elevated serum ammonia levels. elevated blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels and hyperglycemia. elevated liver enzymes and low serum protein level.

ubnormal serum glucose and elevated serum ammonia levels. In acute liver failure, serum ammonia levels increase because the liver can't adequately detoxify the ammonia produced in the GI tract. In addition, serum glucose levels decline because the liver isn't capable of releasing stored glucose. Elevated serum ammonia and subnormal serum glucose levels depress the level of a client's consciousness. Elevated liver enzymes, low serum protein level, subnormal clotting factors and platelet count, elevated blood urea nitrogen and creatine levels, and hyperglycemia aren't as directly related to the client's level of consciousness.

When caring for a client with advanced cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy, which assessment finding should the nurse report immediately? Constipation for more than 2 days Weight loss of 2 pounds in 3 days Anorexia for more than 3 days Change in the client's handwriting and/or cognitive performance

Change in the client's handwriting and/or cognitive performance The earliest symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy include mental status changes and motor disturbances. The client will appear confused and unkempt and have altered mood and sleep patterns. Neurologic status should be assessed frequently. Mental status is monitored by the nurse keeping the client's daily record of handwriting and arithmetic performance. The nurse should report any change in mental status immediately. Chronic fatigue, anorexia, dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea or constipation with accompanying weight loss are regular symptoms of cirrhosis.

A nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with hepatitis A. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching? "How did this happen? I've been faithful my entire marriage." "I'll wash my hands often." "I'll take all my medications as ordered." "I'll be very careful when preparing food for my family."

"How did this happen? I've been faithful my entire marriage." The client requires further teaching if he suggests that he acquired the virus through sexual contact. Hepatitis A is transmitted by the oral-fecal route or through ingested food or liquid that's contaminated with the virus. Hepatitis A is rarely transmitted through sexual contact. Clients with hepatitis A need to take every effort to avoid spreading the virus to other members of their family with precautions such as preparing food carefully, washing hands often, and taking medications as ordered.

A client with cirrhosis has a massive hemorrhage from esophageal varices. Balloon tamponade is used temporarily to control hemorrhage and stabilize the client. In planning care, the nurse gives the highest priority to which goal? Maintaining the airway Relieving the client's anxiety Maintaining fluid volume Controlling bleeding

Maintaining the airway Esophageal varices are almost always caused by portal hypertension, which results from obstruction of the portal circulation within the damaged liver. Maintaining the airway is the highest priority because oxygenation is essential for life. The airway can be compromised by possible displacement of the tube and the inflated balloon into the oropharynx, which can cause life-threatening obstruction of the airway and asphyxiation.

Clients with chronic liver dysfunction have problems with insufficient vitamin intake. Which may occur as a result of vitamin C deficiency? Night blindness Beriberi Scurvy Hypoprothrombinemia

Scurvy Scurvy may result from a vitamin C deficiency. Night blindness, hypoprothrombinemia, and beriberi do not result from a vitamin C deficiency.

What is the recommended dietary treatment for a client with chronic cholecystitis? low-fat diet high-fiber diet low-protein diet low-residue diet

low-fat diet The bile secreted from the gallbladder helps the body absorb and break down dietary fats. If the gallbladder is not functioning properly, then it will not secrete enough bile to help digest the dietary fat. This can lead to further complications; therefore, a diet low in fat can be used to prevent complications.

A client with liver and renal failure has severe ascites. On initial shift rounds, his primary nurse finds his indwelling urinary catheter collection bag too full to store more urine. The nurse empties more than 2,000 ml from the collection bag. One hour later, she finds the collection bag full again. The nurse notifies the physician, who suspects that a bladder rupture is allowing the drainage of peritoneal fluid. The physician orders a urinalysis to be obtained immediately. The presence of which substance is considered abnormal? Albumin Urobilinogen Chloride Creatinine

Albumin Albumin is an abnormal finding in a routine urine specimen. Ascites present in liver failure contain albumin; therefore, if the bladder ruptured, ascites containing albumin would drain from the indwelling urinary catheter because the catheter is no longer contained in the bladder. Creatinine, urobilinogen, and chloride are normally found in urine.

The mode of transmission of hepatitis A virus (HAV) includes which of the following? Fecal-oral Blood Semen Saliva

Fecal-oral The mode of transmission of hepatitis A virus (HAV) occurs through fecal-oral route, primarily through person to person contact and/or ingestion of fecal contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is transmitted primarily through blood. HBV can be found in blood, saliva, semen, and can be transmitted through mucous membranes and breaks in the skin.

Which type of deficiency results in macrocytic anemia? Vitamin K Folic acid Vitamin C Vitamin A

Folic acid Folic acid deficiency results in macrocytic anemia. Vitamin C deficiency results in hemorrhagic lesions of scurvy. Vitamin A deficiency results in night blindness and eye and skin changes. Vitamin K deficiency results in hypoprothrombinemia, which is characterized by spontaneous bleeding and ecchymosis.

A 33-year-old male patient with a history of IV heroin and cocaine use has been admitted to the medical unit for the treatment of endocarditis. The nurse should recognize that this patient is also likely to test positive for which of the following hepatitis viruses? Hepatitis B Hepatitis C Hepatitis A Hepatitis D

Hepatitis C Transmission of hepatitis C occurs primarily through injection of drugs and through transfusion of blood products prior to 1992. Hepatitis A, B, and D are less likely to result from IV drug use.

Which is the most common cause of esophageal varices? Jaundice Ascites Asterixis Portal hypertension

Portal hypertension Esophageal varices are almost always caused by portal hypertension, which results from obstruction of the portal circulation within the damaged liver. Jaundice occurs when the bilirubin concentration in the blood is abnormally elevated. Ascites results from circulatory changes within the diseased liver. Asterixis is an involuntary flapping movement of the hands associated with metabolic liver dysfunction.

Gynecomastia is a common side effect of which of the following diuretics? Spironolactone Vasopressin Furosemide Nitroglycerin (IV)

Spironolactone Gynecomastia is a common side effect caused by spironolactone. Vasopressin is used for bleeding esophageal varices and is not a diuretic. Nitroglycerin (IV) may be used with vasopressin to counteract the effects of vasoconstriction from the vasopressin.

Which of the following liver function studies is used to show the size of abdominal organs and the presence of masses? Electroencephalogram Magnetic resonance imaging Ultrasonography Angiography

Ultrasonography A ultrasonography will show the size of the abdominal organs and the presence of masses. Magnetic resonance imaging is used to detect hepatic neoplasms. An angiography is used to visualize hepatic circulation and detect the presence and nature of hepatic masses. An electroencephalogram is used to detect abnormalities that occur with hepatic coma.

The nurse is administering Cephulac (lactulose) to decrease the ammonia level in a patient who has hepatic encephalopathy. What should the nurse carefully monitor for that may indicate a medication overdose? Asterixis Vomiting Ringing in the ears Watery diarrhea

Watery diarrhea The patient receiving lactulose is monitored closely for the development of watery diarrhea stools, because they indicate a medication overdose. Serum ammonia levels are closely monitored as well.

A client is suspected of having cirrhosis of the liver. What diagnostic procedure will the nurse prepare the client for in order to obtain a confirmed diagnosis? A prothrombin time Platelet count A CT scan A liver biopsy

A liver biopsy A liver biopsy, which reveals hepatic fibrosis, is the most conclusive diagnostic procedure. It can be performed in the radiology department with ultrasound or CT to identify appropriate placement of the trocar or biopsy needle. A prothrombin time and platelet count will assist with determining if the client is at increased risk for bleeding.

Which is an age-related change of the hepatobiliary system? Enlarged liver Decreased prevalence of gallstones Increased drug clearance capability Decreased blood flow

Decreased blood flow Age-related changes of the hepatobiliary system include decreased blood flow, decreased drug clearance capability, increased presence of gall stones, and a steady decrease in the size and weight of the liver.

What initial measure can the nurse implement to reduce risk of injury for a client with liver disease? Prevent visitors, so as not to agitate the client Raise all four side rails on the bed Apply soft wrist restraints Pad the side rails on the bed

Pad the side rails on the bed Padding the side rails can reduce injury if the client becomes agitated or restless. Restraints would not be an initial measure to implement. Four side rails are considered a restraint, and this would not be an initial measure to implement. Family and friends generally assist in calming a client.

A client with cirrhosis has portal hypertension, which is causing esophageal varices. What is the goal of the interventions that the nurse will provide? Cure the cirrhosis. Treat the esophageal varices. Promote optimal neurologic function. Reduce fluid accumulation and venous pressure.

Reduce fluid accumulation and venous pressure. Methods of treating portal hypertension aim to reduce fluid accumulation and venous pressure. There is no cure for cirrhosis; treating the esophageal varices is only a small portion of the overall objective. Promoting optimal neurologic function will not reduce portal hypertension.

A client with hepatitis who has not responded to medical treatment is scheduled for a liver transplant. Which of the following most likely would be ordered? Chenodiol Ursodiol Interferon alfa-2b, recombinant Tacrolimus

Tacrolimus In preparation for a liver transplant, a client receives immunosuppressants to reduce the risk for organ rejection. Tacrolimus and cyclosporine are two immunosuppressants that may be used. Chenodiol and ursodiol are agents used to dissolve gallstones. Recombinant interferon alfa-2b is used to treat chronic hepatitis B, C, and D to force the virus into remission.

A nurse practitioner treating a patient who is diagnosed with hepatitis A should provide health care information. Which of the following statements are correct for this disorder? Select all that apply. The incubation period for this virus is up to 4 months. Transmission of the virus is possible with oral-anal contact during sex. There is a 50% risk that cirrhosis will develop. Typically there is a spontaneous recovery. There is a 70% chance that jaundice will occur.

There is a 70% chance that jaundice will occur. Transmission of the virus is possible with oral-anal contact during sex. Typically there is a spontaneous recovery. The incubation period for hepatitis A is 15 to 50 days, with an average of 28 days. The risk of cirrhosis occurs with hepatitis B.

Which medication is used to decrease portal pressure, halting bleeding of esophageal varices? Nitroglycerin Vasopressin Cimetidine Spironolactone

Vasopressin Vasopressin may be the initial therapy for esophageal varices because it produces constriction of the splanchnic arterial bed and decreases portal hypertension. Nitroglycerin has been used to prevent the side effects of vasopressin. Spironolactone and cimetidine do not decrease portal hypertension.

A nurse educator is providing an in-service to a group of nurses working on a medical floor that specializes in liver disorders. What is an important education topic regarding ingestion of medications? medications becoming ineffective in clients with liver disease need for increased drug dosages metabolism of medications need for more frequently divided doses

metabolism of medications Careful evaluation of the client's response to drug therapy is important because the malfunctioning liver cannot metabolize many substances.

The nurse is assisting the physician with a procedure to remove ascitic fluid from a client with cirrhosis. What procedure does the nurse ensure the client understands will be performed? Upper endoscopy Abdominal paracentesis Abdominal CT scan Thoracentesis

Abdominal paracentesis Abdominal paracentesis may be performed to remove ascitic fluid. Abdominal fluid is rapidly removed by careful introduction of a needle through the abdominal wall, allowing the fluid to drain. Fluid is removed from the lung via a thoracentesis. Fluid cannot be removed with an abdominal CT scan, but it can assist with placement of the needle. Fluid cannot be removed via an upper endoscopy.

A client with cirrhosis is at risk for developing esophageal varices. Which of the following instructions should a nurse provide the client to minimize such risk? Increase intake of potassium-rich food. Avoid intake of sodium-rich food. Abstain from drinking alcohol. Use aspirin at least once a day.

Abstain from drinking alcohol. A soft diet and elimination of alcohol, aspirin, and other locally irritating substances minimize the risk for developing esophageal varices. Intake of sodium- or potassium-rich food has no effect on the formation of varices.

A patient is brought to the emergency department by ambulance. He has hematemesis and alteration in mental status. The patient has tachycardia, cool clammy skin, and hypotension. The patient has a history of alcohol abuse. What would the nurse suspect the patient has? Bleeding esophageal varices Portal hypertension Hemolytic jaundice Hepatic insufficiency

Bleeding esophageal varices The patient with bleeding esophageal varices may present with hematemesis, melena, or general deterioration in mental or physical status and often has a history of alcohol abuse. Signs and symptoms of shock (cool clammy skin, hypotension, tachycardia) may be present. The scenario does not describe hemolytic jaundice, hepatic insufficiency, or portal hypertension.

When assessing a client with cirrhosis of the liver, which of the following stool characteristics is the client likely to report? Black and tarry Yellow-green Blood tinged Clay-colored or whitish

Clay-colored or whitish Many clients report passing clay-colored or whitish stools as a result of no bile in the gastrointestinal tract. The other stool colors would not be absolute indicators of cirrhosis of the liver but may indicate other GI tract disorders.

A nurse is preparing a presentation for a local community group about hepatitis. Which of the following would the nurse include? Infection with hepatitis G is similar to hepatitis A. Hepatitis C increases a person's risk for liver cancer. Hepatitis A is frequently spread by sexual contact. Hepatitis B is transmitted primarily by the oral-fecal route

Hepatitis C increases a person's risk for liver cancer. Infection with hepatitis C increases the risk of a person developing hepatic (liver) cancer. Hepatitis A is transmitted primarily by the oral-fecal route; hepatitis B is frequently spread by sexual contact and infected blood. Hepatitis E is similar to hepatitis A whereas hepatitis G is similar to hepatitis C.

The nurse is caring for a client with cirrhosis. Which assessment findings indicate that the client has deficient vitamin K absorption caused by this hepatic disease? Purpura and petechiae Ascites and orthopnea Dyspnea and fatigue Gynecomastia and testicular atrophy

Purpura and petechiae A hepatic disorder, such as cirrhosis, may disrupt the liver's normal use of vitamin K to produce prothrombin (a clotting factor). Consequently, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, including purpura and petechiae. Dyspnea and fatigue suggest anemia. Ascites and orthopnea are unrelated to vitamin K absorption. Gynecomastia and testicular atrophy result from decreased estrogen metabolism by the diseased liver.

Total parental nutrition (TPN) should be used cautiously in clients with pancreatitis because such clients: cannot tolerate high-glucose concentration. are at risk for gallbladder contraction. are at risk for hepatic encephalopathy. can digest high-fat foods.

cannot tolerate high-glucose concentration. Total parental nutrition (TPN) is used carefully in clients with pancreatitis because some clients cannot tolerate a high-glucose concentration even with insulin coverage. Intake of coffee increases the risk for gallbladder contraction, whereas intake of high protein increases risk for hepatic encephalopathy in clients with cirrhosis. Patients with pancreatitis should not be given high-fat foods because they are difficult to digest.

An important message for any nurse to communicate is that drug-induced hepatitis is a major cause of acute liver failure. The medication that is the leading cause is: Acetaminophen Benadryl Dextromethorphan Ibuprofen

Acetaminophen Although any medication can affect liver function, use of acetaminophen (found in many over-the-counter medications used to treat fever and pain) has been identified as the leading cause of acute liver failure. Other medications commonly associated with liver injury include anesthetic agents, medications used to treat rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease, antidepressants, psychotropic medications, anticonvulsants, and antituberculosis agents.

When performing a physical examination on a client with cirrhosis, a nurse notices that the client's abdomen is enlarged. Which of the following interventions should the nurse consider? Ask the client about food intake. Report the condition to the physician immediately. Measure abdominal girth according to a set routine. Provide the client with nonprescription laxatives.

Measure abdominal girth according to a set routine. If the abdomen appears enlarged, the nurse measures it according to a set routine. The nurse reports any change in mental status or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding immediately. It is not essential for the client to take laxatives unless prescribed. The client's food intake does not affect the size of the abdomen in case of cirrhosis.

A female client with chronic hepatitis B has been prescribed recombinant interferon alfa-2b in combination with ribavirin. Which of the following instructions should a nurse provide this client? Use strict birth control methods. Maintain an exercise regimen. Avoid calcium-rich foods. Avoid hot water baths or soaks.

Use strict birth control methods. A female client who has been prescribed recombinant interferon alpha-2b in combination with ribavirin should be instructed to use strict birth control methods. This is because ribavirin may cause birth defects. It is not essential for the client to avoid calcium-rich foods or hot baths or soaks. The client needs to maintain physical rest during therapy.

A nurse is assessing a postoperative client for hemorrhage. What responses associated with the compensatory stage of shock should be reported to the healthcare provider? bradycardia and tachypnea tachycardia and bradypnea bradycardia and bradypnea tachycardia and tachypnea

tachycardia and tachypnea With shock, the sympathetic nervous system "SNS" is activated due to changes in blood volume and blood pressure. The SNS stimulates the cardiovascular system, causing tachycardia; and the respiratory system, causing tachypnea. Tachycardia (not bradycardia) and tachypnea (not bradypnea) occur with the compensatory stage of shock.

A preoperative client scheduled to have an open cholecystectomy says to the nurse, "The doctor said that after surgery, I will have a tube in my nose that goes into my stomach. Why do I need that?" What most common reason for a client having a nasogastric tube in place after abdominal surgery should the nurse include in a response? gavage lavage decompression instillation

decompression Negative pressure exerted through a tube inserted in the stomach removes secretions and gaseous substances from the stomach, preventing abdominal distention, nausea, and vomiting. Instillations in a nasogastric tube after surgery are done when necessary to promote patency; this is not the most common purpose of a nasogastric tube after surgery. Gavage is contraindicated after abdominal surgery until peristalsis returns. Lavage after surgery may be done to promote hemostasis in the presence of gastric bleeding, but this is not the most common purpose of a nasogastric tube after surgery.

The nurse identifies which type of jaundice in an adult experiencing a transfusion reaction? Nonobstructive Hepatocellular Obstructive Hemolytic

Hemolytic Hemolytic jaundice occurs because, although the liver is functioning normally, it cannot excrete the bilirubin as quickly as it is formed. This type of jaundice is encountered in clients with hemolytic transfusion reactions and other hemolytic disorders. Obstructive and hepatocellular jaundice are the result of liver disease. Nonobstructive jaundice occurs with hepatitis.

The nurse is providing care to a patient with gross ascites who is maintaining a position of comfort in the high semi-Fowler's position. What is the nurse's priority assessment of this patient? Respiratory assessment related to increased thoracic pressure Urinary output related to increased sodium retention Peripheral vascular assessment related to immobility Skin assessment related to increase in bile salts

Respiratory assessment related to increased thoracic pressure If a patient with ascites from liver dysfunction is hospitalized, nursing measures include assessment and documentation of intake and output (I&O;), abdominal girth, and daily weight to assess fluid status. The nurse also closely monitors the respiratory status because large volumes of ascites can compress the thoracic cavity and inhibit adequate lung expansion. The nurse monitors serum ammonia, creatinine, and electrolyte levels to assess electrolyte balance, response to therapy, and indications of encephalopathy.

Which symptoms will a nurse observe most commonly in clients with pancreatitis? black, tarry stools and dark urine increased appetite and weight gain severe, radiating abdominal pain increased and painful urination

severe, radiating abdominal pain The most common symptom in clients with pancreatitis is severe midabdominal to upper abdominal pain, radiating to both sides and straight to the back.

A client has an elevated serum ammonia concentration and is exhibiting changes in mental status. The nurse should suspect which condition? Cirrhosis Hepatic encephalopathy Asterixis Portal hypertension

Hepatic encephalopathy Hepatic encephalopathy is a central nervous system dysfunction resulting from liver disease. It is frequently associated with an elevated ammonia concentration that produces changes in mental status, altered level of consciousness, and coma. Portal hypertension is an elevated pressure in the portal circulation resulting from obstruction of venous flow into and through the liver. Asterixis is an involuntary flapping movement of the hands associated with metabolic liver dysfunction.

A client has undergone a liver biopsy. Which postprocedure position is appropriate? On the left side High Fowler On the right side Trendelenburg

On the right side In this position, the liver capsule at the site of penetration is compressed against the chest wall, and the escape of blood or bile through the perforation made for the biopsy is impeded. Positioning the client on his left side is not indicated. Positioning the client in the Trendelenburg position may be indicated if the client is in shock, but is not the position designed for the client after liver biopsy. The high Fowler position is not indicated for the client after liver biopsy.

A student accepted into a nursing program must begin receiving the hepatitis B series of injections. The student asks when the next two injections should be administered. What is the best response by the instructor? "You must have the second one in 1 year and the third the following year." "You must have the second one in 2 weeks and the third in 1 month." "You must have the second one in 6 months and the third in 1 year." "You must have the second one in 1 month and the third in 6 months."

"You must have the second one in 1 month and the third in 6 months." Both forms of the hepatitis B vaccine are administered intramuscularly in three doses; the second and third doses are given 1 and 6 months, respectively, after the first dose.

A nurse is caring for a client with cholelithiasis. Which sign indicates obstructive jaundice? Reduced hematocrit Straw-colored urine Elevated urobilinogen in the urine Clay-colored stools

Clay-colored stools Obstructive jaundice develops when a stone obstructs the flow of bile in the common bile duct. When the flow of bile to the duodenum is blocked, the lack of bile pigments results in a clay-colored stool. In obstructive jaundice, urine tends to be dark amber (not straw-colored) as a result of soluble bilirubin in the urine. Hematocrit levels aren't affected by obstructive jaundice. Because obstructive jaundice prevents bilirubin from reaching the intestine (where it's converted to urobilinogen), the urine contains no urobilinogen.

A client with hepatic cirrhosis questions the nurse about the possible use of an herbal supplement—milk thistle—to help heal the liver. Which is the most appropriate response by the nurse? "Silymarin from milk thistle has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may have beneficial effects, especially in hepatitis. However, you should always notify your primary care provider of any herbal remedies being used so drug interactions can be evaluated." "You should not use herbal supplements in conjunction with medical treatment." "Herbal supplements are approved by the FDA, so there should be no problem with their usage if you check with your primary care provider." "You can use milk thistle instead of the medications you have been prescribed."

"Silymarin from milk thistle has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may have beneficial effects, especially in hepatitis. However, you should always notify your primary care provider of any herbal remedies being used so drug interactions can be evaluated." Many clients who have end-stage liver disease (ESLD) with cirrhosis use the herb milk thistle (Silybum marianum) to treat jaundice and other symptoms. This herb has been used for centuries because of its healing and regenerative properties in liver disease. Silymarin from milk thistle has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may have beneficial effects, especially in hepatitis. The natural compound SAM-e (s-adenosylmethionine) may improve outcomes of liver disease by improving liver function, possibly by enhancing antioxidant function. Herbal supplements are used in conjunction with medical treatment and medications. Herbal supplements are not approved by the FDA. Their usage should be discussed with the primary care provider to evaluate their effectiveness and interactions with other treatment regimens.

Which of the following would the nurse expect to assess in a client with hepatic encephalopathy? Negative Babinski reflex Increased motor activity Asterixis Irritability

Asterixis Hepatic encephalopathy is manifested by numerous central nervous system effects including: disorientation, confusion, personality changes, memory loss, a flapping tremor called asterixis, a positive Babinski reflex, sulfurous breath odor (referred to as fetor hepaticus), and lethargy to deep coma.

The nurse assesses a patient who is diagnosed with decompensated cirrhosis. Which of the following are clinical indicators consistent with that diagnosis? Select all that apply. Vascular spiders Splenomegaly Clubbing of the fingers A firm, enlarged liver Jaundice Ascites

Clubbing of the fingers Ascites Jaundice Compensated cirrhosis, with its less severe, often vague symptoms, may be discovered secondarily at a routine physical examination. The hallmarks of decompensated cirrhosis result from failure of the liver to synthesize proteins, clotting factors, and other substances and manifestations of portal hypertension (see earlier sections of this chapter for clinical manifestations and management of portal hypertension, ascites, varices, and hepatic encephalopathy).

What test should the nurse prepare the client for that will locate stones that have collected in the common bile duct? Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) Abdominal x-ray Cholecystectomy Colonoscopy

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ERCP locates stones that have collected in the common bile duct. A colonoscopy will not locate gallstones but only allows visualization of the large intestine. Abdominal x-ray is not a reliable locator of gallstones. A cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder.

A client and spouse are visiting the clinic. The client recently experienced a seizure and says she has been having difficulty writing. Before the seizure, the client says that for several weeks she was sleeping late into the day but having restlessness and insomnia at night. The client's husband says that he has noticed the client has been moody and slightly confused. Which of the following problems is most consistent with the client's clinical manifestations? Hepatic encephalopathy Esophageal varices Hepatitis C Portal hypertension

Hepatic encephalopathy The earliest symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy include minor mental changes and motor disturbances. The client appears slightly confused and unkempt and has alterations in mood and sleep patterns. The client tends to sleep during the day and have restlessness and insomnia at night. As hepatic encephalopathy progresses, the client may become difficult to awaken and completely disoriented with respect to time and place. With further progression, the client lapses into frank coma and may have seizures. Simple tasks, such as handwriting, become difficult.

While conducting a physical examination of a client, which of the following skin findings would alert the nurse to the liklihood of liver problems? Select all that apply. Cyanosis of the lips Ecchymoses Jaundice Aphthous stomatitis Petechiae

Jaundice Petechiae Ecchymoses The skin, mucosa, and sclerae are inspected for jaundice. The nurse observes the skin for petechiae or ecchymotic areas (bruises), spider angiomas, and palmar erythema. Cyanosis of the lips is indicative of a problem with respiratory or cardiovascular dysfunction. Aphthous stomatitis is a term for mouth ulcers and is a gastrointestinal abnormal finding.

The nurse is administering medications to a client that has elevated ammonia due to cirrhosis of the liver. What medication will the nurse give to detoxify ammonium and to act as an osmotic agent? Lactulose Cholestyramine Kanamycin Spironolactone

Lactulose Lactulose is administered to detoxify ammonium and to act as an osmotic agent, drawing water into the bowel, which causes diarrhea in some clients. Potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone are used to treat ascites. Cholestyramine is a bile acid sequestrant and reduces pruritus. Kanamycin decreases intestinal bacteria and decreases ammonia but does not act as an osmotic agent.

A physician orders spironolactone (Aldactone), 50 mg by mouth four times daily, for a client with fluid retention caused by cirrhosis. Which finding indicates that the drug is producing a therapeutic effect? Loss of 2.2 lb (1 kg) in 24 hours Serum sodium level of 135 mEq/L Blood pH of 7.25 Serum potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L

Loss of 2.2 lb (1 kg) in 24 hours Daily weight measurement is the most accurate indicator of fluid status; a loss of 2.2 lb (1 kg) indicates loss of 1 L of fluid. Because spironolactone is a diuretic, weight loss is the best indicator of its effectiveness. This client's serum potassium and sodium levels are normal. A blood pH of 7.25 indicates acidosis, an adverse reaction to spironolactone.

Which term describes the passage of a hollow instrument into a cavity to withdraw fluid? Asterixis Ascites Dialysis Paracentesis

Paracentesis Paracentesis may be used to withdraw fluid (ascites) if the accumulated fluid is causing cardiorespiratory compromise. Asterixis refers to involuntary flapping movements of the hands associated with metabolic liver dysfunction. Ascites refers to accumulation of serous fluid within the peritoneal cavity. Dialysis refers to a form of filtration to separate crystalloid from colloid substances.

Which of the following diagnostic studies definitely confirms the presence of ascites? Abdominal x-ray Computed tomography of abdomen Colonoscopy Ultrasound of liver and abdomen

Ultrasound of liver and abdomen Ultrasonography of the liver and abdomen will definitively confirm the presence of ascites. An abdominal x-ray, colonoscopy, and computed tomography of the abdomen would not confirm the presence of ascites.

Which of the following is the most effective strategy to prevent hepatitis B infection? Avoid sharing toothbrushes Vaccine Covering open sores Barrier protection during intercourse

Vaccine The most effective strategy to prevent hepatitis B infection is through vaccination. Recommendations to prevent transmission of hepatitis B include vaccination of sexual contacts of individuals with chronic hepatitis, use of barrier protection during sexual intercourse, avoidance of sharing toothbrushes, razors with others, and covering open sores or skin lesions.

A client with severe and chronic liver disease is showing manifestations related to inadequate vitamin intake and metabolism. He reports difficulty driving at night because he cannot see well. Which of the following vitamins is most likely deficient for this client? Vitamin A Riboflavin Vitamin K Thiamine

Vitamin A Problems common to clients with severe chronic liver dysfunction result from inadequate intake of sufficient vitamins. Vitamin A deficiency results in night blindness and eye and skin changes. Thiamine deficiency can lead to beriberi, polyneuritis, and Wernicke-Korsakoff psychosis. Riboflavin deficiency results in characteristic skin and mucous membrane lesions. Vitamin K deficiency can cause hypoprothrombinemia, characterized by spontaneous bleeding and ecchymoses.

A client with hepatitis C develops liver failure and GI hemorrhage. The blood products that most likely bring about hemostasis in the client are: cryoprecipitate and fresh frozen plasma. platelets and packed red blood cells. fresh frozen plasma and whole blood. whole blood and albumin.

cryoprecipitate and fresh frozen plasma. The liver is vital in the synthesis of clotting factors, so when it's diseased or dysfunctional, as in hepatitis C, bleeding occurs. Treatment consists of administering blood products that aid clotting. These products include fresh frozen plasma containing fibrinogen and cryoprecipitate, which have most of the clotting factors. Although administering whole blood, albumin, and packed cells will contribute to hemostasis, these products aren't specifically used to treat hemostasis. Although platelets may be helpful, the best answer is cryoprecipitate and fresh frozen plasma.