A client with cirrhosis has the following laboratory results: albumin 4.9 g/dl. (3.5-5 g/dL), PT 13 seconds (11-12.5 sec), and serum ammonia 68 mcg/dL (15-45 mcg/dL). Based on this information, what is the nurse's next action?
Assess level of consciousness
Assess for bleeding
Measure abdominal girth
Auscultate bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is A
A) Elevated serum ammonia levels can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, which affects mental status and consciousness, making this the priority assessment.
B) The PT is slightly prolonged but not alarmingly high; bleeding is less of a concern compared to the elevated ammonia.
C) This action is important in assessing fluid accumulation but is not as critical as assessing mental status in this scenario.
D) While part of a comprehensive abdominal assessment, this is not the most critical action given the elevated ammonia level.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Weight loss is a common symptom of chronic pancreatitis due to malabsorption and decreased appetite.
B) Cool, clammy skin is not typically associated with chronic pancreatitis; it may indicate other conditions such as shock or hypotension.
C) Bruising on the flank is not a typical finding in chronic pancreatitis; it may suggest trauma or other underlying conditions.
D) Ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, is more commonly associated with advanced liver disease rather than chronic pancreatitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Monitoring for hypertension is not directly related to caring for a client with enteral feeding via a jejunostomy tube.
B) Measuring residual volume is a nursing intervention for clients with gastric feeding tubes, not jejunostomy tubes.
C) Diarrhea is a potential complication of enteral feeding, and monitoring stool output is essential to assess for this complication and adjust feeding accordingly.
D) Monitoring blood glucose levels is important for clients with diabetes but is not specific to caring for a client with enteral feeding via a jejunostomy tube.
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