The nurse is reviewing laboratory test results for the client with liver disease and notes that the client's albumin level is low. Which nursing assessment indicates low albumin levels?
Evaluate for asterixis
Palpate for peripheral edema
Evaluate for decreased level of consciousness
Inspect for petechiae
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Asterixis, also known as “liver flap,” is a type of tremor characterized by rapid, nonrhythmic extensions and flexions in the wrist and fingers. It is associated with hepatic encephalopathy, a condition that can occur with severe liver disease, but it is not a direct indicator of low albumin levels.
Choice B reason: Peripheral edema is a common clinical finding in patients with hypoalbuminemia, which is a low level of albumin in the blood. When albumin levels are low, fluid from the bloodstream can leak into body tissues, causing swelling, especially in the lower limbs. When assessing a client with liver disease and low albumin levels, palpating for peripheral edema would be the most relevant nursing assessment, as it directly correlates with the effects of hypoalbuminemia on fluid balance in the body. Albumin is a protein made by the liver that helps keep fluid in your blood vessels and plays a role in transporting substances throughout your body. Low levels of albumin can lead to fluid leaking out of blood vessels into tissues, causing swelling or edema.
Choice C reason: Decreased level of consciousness can be a sign of various conditions, including hepatic encephalopathy or other complications of liver disease, but it is not specifically indicative of low albumin levels.
Choice D reason: Petechiae are small red or purple spots caused by bleeding into the skin and may be associated with various conditions, including liver disease, but they are not a specific sign of low albumin levels.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The GFR does not recover during the oliguric phase; instead, it is typically reduced, reflecting impaired kidney function.
Choice B reason: Urine output of less than 400 mL per 24 hours is characteristic of the oliguric phase of AKI. This phase can last from 1 to 7 days after kidney injury and is a crucial time for monitoring and managing the patient's fluid and electrolyte balance.
Choice C reason: BUN and creatinine levels do not decrease during the oliguric phase. They usually increase due to reduced kidney function and the inability to excrete these waste products.
Choice D reason: Renal function is not reestablished during the oliguric phase. This phase is part of the course of AKI where renal function is at its lowest, and recovery has not yet begun.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Weight gain is not typically a direct cause of chronic pancreatitis. While obesity can be a risk factor for developing pancreatitis, it is not considered a primary cause.
Choice B reason: The use of alcohol is the most common cause of chronic pancreatitis. Long-term alcohol misuse can lead to the development of chronic pancreatitis, accounting for about 70% of cases³.
Choice C reason: Abdominal pain that is relieved with food or antacids is more indicative of conditions like peptic ulcers rather than chronic pancreatitis.
Choice D reason:Exposure to occupational chemicals has not been established as a primary cause of chronic pancreatitis. While certain toxins can affect the pancreas, they are not a common cause of chronic pancreatitis.
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