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?

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.

A) Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) typically appears later in the course of liver cirrhosis and is usually associated with more advanced liver damage.

B) Ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, is a later manifestation of liver cirrhosis and usually occurs after significant liver damage has occurred.

C) Spider angiomas, also known as spider nevi or spider telangiectasias, are dilated blood vessels that appear as small red spots with tiny radiating legs. They are a common early sign of liver cirrhosis and result from increased pressure in the superficial blood vessels due to impaired liver function. Spider angiomas are often found on the face, neck, upper trunk, and arms.

D) Hepatic encephalopathy, a neuropsychiatric complication of advanced liver disease, is also a later manifestation of liver cirrhosis and is not an early sign of the condition.