A nurse is caring for a client with liver cirrhosis and notices that the client's platelet count is significantly decreased. Which complication of liver cirrhosis is the likely cause of this finding?

Portal hypertension

Ascites

Hepatocellular carcinoma

Splenomegaly

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A) In liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension occurs due to increased pressure in the portal vein, which carries blood from the intestines to the liver. The increased pressure leads to the development of portosystemic collaterals (collateral circulation) to divert blood flow. This can cause hypersplenism, a condition where the spleen becomes enlarged and traps platelets, leading to a decreased platelet count (thrombocytopenia).

B) Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is not directly related to a decreased platelet count.

C) Hepatocellular carcinoma is a type of liver cancer and can be a complication of liver cirrhosis. However, it is not the likely cause of the client's decreased platelet count.

D) Splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen) can occur in liver cirrhosis due to portal hypertension. However, splenomegaly itself is not the cause of the decreased platelet count; it is the hypersplenism resulting from the splenomegaly that causes thrombocytopenia.

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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.

A. "Take lactulose with meals to enhance its effectiveness." B. "Expect one to two soft bowel movements per day while on lactulose." C. "Limit your fluid intake while on lactulose to prevent fluid overload." D. "Monitor your blood glucose levels frequently while taking lactulose."

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) While lactulose can be taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort, its effectiveness is not necessarily enhanced by taking it with meals. The timing and dosage of lactulose should be based on the healthcare provider's instructions.

B) Lactulose is a medication commonly used to manage hepatic encephalopathy in clients with liver cirrhosis. It works by reducing ammonia levels in the blood by promoting the excretion of ammonia through the stool. The nurse should instruct the client to expect one to two soft bowel movements per day while on lactulose, as this indicates the medication's effectiveness in removing ammonia from the body.

C) Lactulose is not associated with fluid overload, and there is no need to limit fluid intake while taking the medication. In fact, adequate hydration is important in clients with liver cirrhosis.

D) Lactulose is not known to significantly affect blood glucose levels, and there is no specific need for the client to monitor blood glucose levels while taking this medication.

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A nurse is caring for a client with liver cirrhosis and notices that the client's platelet count is significantly decreased. Which complication of liver cirrhosis is the likely cause of this finding?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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

A client with liver cirrhosis is prescribed lactulose to manage hepatic encephalopathy. What should the nurse instruct the client about taking this medication?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client with liver cirrhosis is experiencing episodes of hepatic encephalopathy. Which medication should the nurse anticipate administering to help reduce ammonia levels in the blood?

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client with liver cirrhosis. Which dietary modification should the nurse recommend to the client?

A nurse is providing community education on the risk factors for liver cirrhosis. Which risk factor should the nurse emphasize as the leading cause of liver cirrhosis?

A client with liver cirrhosis has been referred for transient elastography. What is the primary purpose of this diagnostic test?

A nurse is assessing a client with liver cirrhosis and observes that the client has altered mental status and confusion. Which action should the nurse take first?

A client with liver cirrhosis presents with severe ascites. Which procedure should the nurse anticipate being performed to drain the accumulated fluid from the peritoneal cavity?

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 client with liver cirrhosis complains of difficulty sleeping at night due to frequent awakenings caused by shortness of breath. Which complication should the nurse suspect as the most likely cause of the client's symptom?