A 51 year old male has been diagnosed with alcohol-induced liver disease. He admits to the nurse he does not understand what the liver does in the body. Which of these statements best explains the liver's function?
The liver metabolizes most components of food (protein, carbohydrates and fats) and also cleans the blood of bacteria and drugs
The liver maintains a balanced level of electrolytes and pH in the body and stores glucose, minerals and vitamins
The liver is responsible for the absorption of most dietary nutrients as well as the production of growth hormones.
The liver contributes to the metabolism of ingested food and provides the fluids that the GI tract requires
The Correct Answer is A
A. The liver metabolizes most components of food (protein, carbohydrates and fats) and also cleans the blood of bacteria and drugs: The liver plays a central role in metabolism, including converting nutrients into energy or storage forms, breaking down toxins, metabolizing drugs, and filtering bacteria from the blood via Kupffer cells.
B. The liver maintains a balanced level of electrolytes and pH in the body and stores glucose, minerals and vitamins: While the liver stores glycogen and some vitamins and minerals, it does not directly regulate electrolyte or pH balance, which is primarily the function of the kidneys and respiratory system.
C. The liver is responsible for the absorption of most dietary nutrients as well as the production of growth hormones: Nutrient absorption is mainly the role of the small intestine. Growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland, not the liver, making this statement inaccurate.
D. The liver contributes to the metabolism of ingested food and provides the fluids that the GI tract requires: Although the liver produces bile, which aids in fat digestion, it does not supply most of the fluids needed by the GI tract. Salivary glands, gastric glands, pancreas, and intestines contribute the majority of GI fluids.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Three: Up to three bowel movements per day is generally considered the upper limit of normal for stool frequency in adults. This range accommodates individual variation while distinguishing normal from diarrhea.
B. Five: Five stools per day exceed the typical upper limit and may indicate diarrhea or an underlying gastrointestinal disorder if persistent, rather than normal bowel habits.
C. Two: Two stools per day fall well within the normal range but do not represent the upper limit. Normal stool frequency can range from three times per day to three times per week.
D. Seven: Seven stools per day indicate frequent bowel movements consistent with diarrhea, which is above normal frequency and warrants further assessment for underlying causes.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increase their intake of cranberry juice and other fluids: While cranberry juice and increased fluids may help prevent or relieve mild urinary tract infections, the presence of blood in the urine (hematuria) and lower abdominal pain may indicate a more serious condition that requires professional evaluation rather than home remedies alone.
B. Wait and see if it goes away without treatment: Ignoring hematuria and pain can delay diagnosis and treatment of potentially serious conditions such as infections, stones, or other urinary tract problems. Prompt assessment is important to prevent complications.
C. Go to the emergency room right away: Unless symptoms are severe, such as uncontrollable pain, fever, or signs of systemic infection, immediate emergency care may not be necessary. However, timely medical evaluation is still essential.
D. Get an appointment with their family provider: This is the most appropriate advice because a healthcare provider can perform necessary assessments, such as history, physical exam, and diagnostic tests, to determine the cause of hematuria and pain and initiate appropriate treatment.
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