A client with liver cirrhosis is prescribed spironolactone to manage fluid retention. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor closely while the client is on this medication?

Serum potassium levels

Blood glucose levels

White blood cell count

Serum calcium levels

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A) Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic commonly used to manage fluid retention in liver cirrhosis. The nurse should monitor the client's serum potassium levels regularly as this medication can cause hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels). It is important to assess potassium levels to avoid complications associated with imbalances in potassium levels.

B) Monitoring blood glucose levels is not specifically related to the use of spironolactone in liver cirrhosis. Spironolactone does not have a significant effect on blood glucose levels.

C) Monitoring the white blood cell count is not directly related to the use of spironolactone. White blood cell count is typically monitored to assess for signs of infection or immune system response.

D) Monitoring serum calcium levels is not directly related to the use of spironolactone in liver cirrhosis. Spironolactone does not significantly impact calcium levels in the blood.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Iron supplements are not indicated in the care of a client with liver cirrhosis and esophageal varices. The client's condition is related to portal hypertension and the risk of variceal bleeding, not blood clotting.

B) Monitoring fluid balance and daily weights is important in managing clients with liver cirrhosis, especially those with ascites. However, it is not the essential intervention specific to clients at risk of developing esophageal varices.

C) Elevating the head of the bed is a standard intervention to prevent aspiration in clients with various medical conditions. However, it is not the essential intervention specific to clients at risk of esophageal varices.

D) Encouraging the client to avoid straining during bowel movements is essential in the care of a client at risk of developing esophageal varices. Straining during bowel movements can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which may lead to increased pressure in the portal vein, potentially exacerbating portal hypertension and increasing the risk of variceal bleeding.

A. Serum albumin levels B. Prothrombin time (PT) C. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels D. Total bilirubin levels

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Serum albumin is a protein synthesized by the liver, and its levels are often decreased in advanced liver cirrhosis due to impaired liver function. However, the question asks for an elevated finding, not a decreased one.

B) Prothrombin time (PT) measures the time it takes for blood to clot. In liver cirrhosis, PT is often prolonged due to impaired liver function and reduced production of clotting factors. However, the question asks for an elevated finding, not a prolonged one.

C) Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found in the liver and other organs. While AST levels may be elevated in liver cirrhosis, it is not a specific marker for liver cirrhosis, and its elevation can occur in various liver diseases and conditions.

D) In liver cirrhosis, impaired liver function leads to reduced clearance of bilirubin, resulting in elevated total bilirubin levels in the blood. Elevated bilirubin is a common finding in liver cirrhosis and can contribute to jaundice.

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A client with liver cirrhosis is prescribed spironolactone to manage fluid retention. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor closely while the client is on this medication?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with liver cirrhosis is at risk of developing esophageal varices. Which nursing intervention is essential in the care of this client?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client suspected to have liver cirrhosis. Which finding should the nurse expect to be elevated, indicating impaired liver function?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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