A nurse is providing education to a client who needs a cholecystectomy due to a build-up of calculi or gallstones. Which of the following is the best response from the nurse to explain what caused this problem?

Choice A Reason:

This option suggests that the gallbladder is blocked by a tumor. While tumors can cause blockages, they are not the most common cause of gallbladder inflammation requiring a cholecystectomy. Gallstones are a more frequent cause of such issues.

Choice B Reason:

This is the correct answer. Gallstones can block the common bile duct, leading to inflammation of the gallbladder, a condition known as cholecystitis. This blockage prevents bile from flowing out of the gallbladder, causing pain and potentially leading to infection.

Choice C Reason:

While cholesterol is a component of many gallstones, the inflammation of the gallbladder is typically due to the physical blockage caused by the stones rather than the cholesterol itself. The blockage leads to bile buildup and subsequent inflammation.

Choice D Reason:

Gallbladder infections caused by viruses are extremely rare. Most gallbladder infections are bacterial and occur secondary to blockages caused by gallstones.

Choice A Reason: Night sweats

Night sweats are not typically associated with liver disease. They are more commonly linked to conditions such as infections, hormonal imbalances, or certain cancers1. While liver disease can cause a variety of symptoms, night sweats are not a primary manifestation.

Choice B Reason: Acanthosis nigricans

Acanthosis nigricans is characterized by dark, velvety patches of skin, usually in body folds and creases. It is often associated with insulin resistance, obesity, and certain endocrine disorders. It is not a common manifestation of liver disease.

Choice C Reason: Hemosiderin staining

Hemosiderin staining refers to the deposition of iron in the skin, which can cause a brownish discoloration. This condition is more commonly associated with chronic venous insufficiency or hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes iron overload. It is not a typical symptom of liver disease.

Choice D Reason: Pruritus

Pruritus, or itching, is a common symptom of liver disease. It is often caused by the accumulation of bile salts in the skin due to impaired bile flow, a condition known as cholestasis. This symptom can be particularly distressing for patients and is a significant indicator of liver dysfunction.