A nurse is caring for a client who has cirrhosis of the liver. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Monitor for abdominal ascites.
Implement a low-carbohydrate diet.
Review serum amylase levels.
Place warm compresses on areas of pruritus
The Correct Answer is A
A.
A. Monitor for abdominal ascites - Ascites is a common complication of cirrhosis due to portal hypertension and decreased albumin production. Monitoring for abdominal distention and fluid
accumulation is essential for assessing the progression of cirrhosis and implementing appropriate interventions.
B. Implement a low-carbohydrate diet - While dietary modifications may be necessary for clients with cirrhosis, such as reducing sodium intake, implementing a low-carbohydrate diet is not typically a primary intervention for cirrhosis.
C. Review serum amylase levels - Serum amylase levels are typically assessed to diagnose pancreatitis, which is not directly related to cirrhosis unless complications such as alcoholic pancreatitis are present.
D. Place warm compresses on areas of pruritus - Pruritus (itching) is a common symptom of liver disease, including cirrhosis, due to bile salt accumulation. While warm compresses may provide
temporary relief, they do not address the underlying cause of pruritus in cirrhosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While a blood pressure of 156/90 mm Hg may be elevated, it is not necessarily an indication to withhold propranolol, which is commonly used to treat hypertension.
B. A pulse rate of 54/min suggests bradycardia, which is a potential side effect of propranolol and may warrant withholding the medication.
C. A potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and is not typically a reason to withhold propranolol.
D. A sodium level of 130 mEq/L is within the normal range (135-145 mEq/L) and is not typically a reason to withhold propranolol.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A wall suction setting of 60 mm Hg is within the expected range for low intermittent suction. This indicates the NG tube is likely functioning appropriately in terms of suction pressure.
B. Greenish-yellow drainage is an expected finding and reflects bile-stained gastric contents. This suggests the NG tube is effectively removing gastric secretions.
C. An aspirate pH of 3 is acidic and consistent with gastric placement of the NG tube. This finding supports proper tube positioning and function.
D. Abdominal rigidity may indicate that gastric contents are not being adequately decompressed, suggesting the NG tube is obstructed or not functioning properly. This is an abnormal and concerning finding requiring immediate attention.
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