A nurse is caring for a patient who reports pain in their lower extremities following surgery. Which of the following should the nurse address first?

Choice C rationale
Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition that can cause confusion or delirium in patients with end-stage liver disease and increasing ascites. It occurs when the liver is unable to remove toxins from the blood, such as ammonia, which can then accumulate in the brain and affect mental function. This condition is common in patients with cirrhosis or end-stage liver disease, and can manifest as confusion, changes in sleep patterns, mood alterations, and, in severe cases, coma.
Choice A rationale
While dementia can cause confusion and changes in mental status, it is typically a progressive condition that develops over time. In the context of a patient with end-stage liver failure and

increasing ascites who is usually lucid, a sudden onset of confusion or delirium is more likely to be due to a condition related to their liver disease, such as hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice B rationale
Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, sense of self, and behavior. It is not typically associated with end-stage liver disease or ascites. In the context of a patient with end-stage liver failure and increasing ascites who is usually lucid, a sudden onset of confusion or delirium is more likely to be due to a condition related to their liver disease, such as hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice D rationale
While a urinary tract infection (UTI) can cause confusion, especially in older adults, it would not typically be the primary suspect in a patient with end-stage liver failure and increasing ascites. In such a patient, hepatic encephalopathy is a more likely cause of confusion or delirium.

Choice A rationale
Sleep problems are a common non-gastrointestinal symptom associated with IBS345. These can include difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings during the night, and feeling unrefreshed upon waking.
Choice B rationale
General muscle aches are not typically associated with IBS. While some people with IBS may experience discomfort or pain in various parts of their body, these symptoms are not usually described as muscle aches.
Choice C rationale
Paresthesias, or abnormal sensations such as tingling or prickling, are not typically associated with IBS345.
Choice D rationale
Restlessness is not typically associated with IBS. However, some people with IBS may experience increased anxiety or stress, which could potentially lead to feelings of restlessness.