A client is being treated for hepatic failure. On examination, the client has an elevated pulse rate and exhibited changes in mental status. Which intervention in the plan of care should the practical nurse (PN) implement?
Offer a high protein diet.
Perform range of motion exercises.
Weigh every morning.
Provide only distilled water.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Offering a high protein diet may not be appropriate for a client with hepatic failure. High protein intake can lead to the accumulation of ammonia in the bloodstream, worsening hepatic encephalopathy. Therefore, this choice is not the best intervention for the client.
Choice B rationale:
Performing range of motion exercises is important for clients with hepatic failure to prevent complications related to immobility. However, it does not directly address the client's elevated pulse rate and changes in mental status.
Choice C rationale:
Weighing the client every morning is essential in monitoring fluid status and identifying signs of fluid retention or dehydration, which are common in hepatic failure. Changes in weight can help detect early signs of worsening hepatic function.
Choice D rationale:
Providing only distilled water may not be appropriate for a client with hepatic failure. While it is essential to monitor fluid intake, restricting all fluids to only distilled water could lead to electrolyte imbalances and further complications. Monitoring overall fluid intake and type is important for these clients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is the finding that the PN should report to the charge nurse because it indicates a possible complication of Guillain-Barre syndrome, which is autonomic dysfunction. This can affect the cardiac, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems and cause life-threatening problems such as arrhythmias, hypotension, or respiratory failure. The PN should monitor the client's vital signs closely and report any abnormal changes.

B. Profuse diaphoresis is not a priority finding and may be related to other factors such as fever, anxiety, or medication side effects.
C. Lower leg weakness is an expected finding in Guillain-Barre syndrome and does not need to be reported unless it progresses rapidly or affects the respiratory muscles.
D. Full facial flushing is not a priority finding and may be related to other factors such as vasodilation, inflammation, or medication side effects.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D, Pupils reactive to accommodation. Choice A rationale:
"Peripheral vision intact”. refers to the ability to see objects at the outer edges of one's visual field. It is not relevant to the assessment of pupillary response and does not describe the finding of pupils constricting as they change focus from a far object to a near object.
Choice B rationale:
"Nystagmus present with pupillary focus”. suggests involuntary rapid eye movements accompanied by changes in pupillary response. Nystagmus is not an expected finding during pupillary accommodation, and its presence would indicate a neurological issue rather than a normal response.
Choice C rationale:
"Consensual pupillary constriction present”. refers to both pupils constricting when light is shined into one eye. While this finding is normal, it does not specifically describe the pupils' response during accommodation when focusing from a far object to a near object.
Choice D rationale:

"Pupils reactive to accommodation”. accurately describes the normal physiological response of the pupils constricting as they change focus from a distant object to a nearby object. This response ensures that the appropriate amount of light enters the eyes to maintain clear vision during different distances of focus.
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