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Which of the following laboratory findings is most indicative of fluid volume excess in a client with liver cirrhosis?

A.

Increased AST levels

B.

Decreased albumin levels

C.

High prothrombin time

D.

Elevated serum bilirubin

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Rationale:

A. Elevated AST indicates hepatocellular injury, but it does not directly reflect fluid volume status.

B. In liver cirrhosis, the liver produces less albumin, leading to reduced plasma oncotic pressure. Low albumin allows fluid to leak into interstitial spaces, causing ascites, edema, and overall fluid volume excess.

C. Prolonged PT reflects impaired clotting factor synthesis in cirrhosis, not fluid status.

D. High bilirubin indicates impaired bile excretion and liver dysfunction, but it is not a direct marker of fluid overload.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Rationale:

A. This occurs when there is hypoventilation, leading to elevated PaCO2 and decreased pH. In this case, the PaCO2 is low (32 mm Hg) and the pH is high (7.48), so this is not consistent with respiratory acidosis.

B. The high pH (7.48) indicates alkalosis, and the low PaCO2 (32 mm Hg) shows that the alkalosis is caused by excessive exhalation of CO2, characteristic of respiratory alkalosis. The HCO3 is normal, indicating the kidneys have not yet compensated.

C. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and low HCO3. Here, the pH is elevated and HCO3 is normal, so this is not consistent with metabolic acidosis.

D. Metabolic alkalosis would present with high pH and elevated HCO3, often due to vomiting or diuretic use. In this scenario, HCO3 is normal, indicating the alkalosis is not metabolic in origin.

Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]

Explanation

Rationale:

  • Retaining the fluid allows the enema to soften stool and stimulate peristalsis effectively.
  • Avoiding frequent use prevents dependence and irritation of the bowel.
  • Following provider instructions ensures safe and appropriate selection of enema type and solution for the client’s condition.
  • Electrolyte imbalances, benefits of solutions, and fluid intake are important considerations but are broader teaching points, not immediate enema administration instructions.

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