A nurse is reviewing laboratory findings for three clients.
Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse expect for a client who has cirrhosis?
Elevated amylase
Decreased bilirubin
Elevated lipase
Elevated ammonia
The Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D, Elevated ammonia
Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease characterized by the progressive scarring of liver tissue. As liver function becomes impaired, there is a decrease in the liver's ability to metabolize and detoxify substances, including ammonia. Elevated ammonia levels in the blood, known as hyperammonemia, are commonly seen in clients with advanced cirrhosis.
Elevated amylase in (option A) is incorrect because it is typically seen in conditions affecting the pancreas, such as pancreatitis, and is not specific to cirrhosis.
Decreased bilirubin levels in (option B) is incorrect because they are not expected in cirrhosis. In fact, bilirubin levels are often elevated in cirrhosis due to impaired liver function and the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood.
Elevated lipase in (option C) is incorrect because it is typically seen in pancreatic disorders, such as pancreatitis, and is not specific to cirrhosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Hyperkalemia refers to an elevated level of potassium in the blood. It can have various manifestations, and one of the critical effects of hyperkalemia is its impact on cardiac function. High levels of potassium can disrupt the normal electrical conduction in the heart, leading to arrhythmias or irregular heart rate. These arrhythmias can range from mild palpitations to more severe and life-threatening conditions like ventricular fibrillation.
Dry mucous membranes are more commonly associated with dehydration or reduced fluid intake. Hyperkalemia does not directly cause dry mucous membranes.
Trousseau's sign is a clinical manifestation of hypocalcemia, not hyperkalemia. It is characterized by carpal spasm induced by inflating a blood pressure cuff above the client's systolic blood pressure for a few minutes.
Hyperactive reflexes are commonly seen in conditions such as hyperthyroidism or certain neurologic disorders. They are not directly related to hyperkalemia.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Epinephrine is a medication commonly used to treat severe allergic reactions, also known as anaphylaxis. One of the hallmark signs of anaphylaxis is difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Epinephrine works by constricting blood vessels, relaxing smooth muscles in the airways, and reducing swelling, which can help relieve the symptoms of respiratory distress. Epinephrine is not typically used to treat nausea, hyperglycemia, or hand tremors.
Nausea can be caused by various factors and is usually managed with antiemetic medications. Hyperglycemia, which refers to high blood sugar levels, is typically managed with appropriate diabetes management, including insulin or other glucose-lowering medications. Hand tremors can have different underlying causes, and their treatment depends on the specific etiology.
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