Which of the following laboratory findings is most indicative of fluid volume excess in a client with liver cirrhosis?
Increased AST levels
Decreased albumin levels
High prothrombin time
Elevated serum bilirubin
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Lactulose is usually administered orally to soften stools, not as a short-retention enema.
B. A Fleet enema is a hypertonic solution that draws fluid into the colon, is retained briefly, and promotes rapid evacuation of stool to relieve constipation.
C. Tap water enemas are hypotonic and typically require immediate expulsion, not short retention.
D. Mineral oil enemas are retention enemas, meant to soften stool over a longer period, not for rapid evacuation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Seizures are more commonly associated with severe electrolyte imbalances like hyponatremia, not mild hypokalemia.
B. Neurogenic shock is related to spinal cord injury, not potassium imbalance.
C. Hypokalemia (potassium 3.3 mEq/L; normal 3.5–5.0 mEq/L) increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmias, palpitations, and potentially life-threatening cardiac complications, especially in clients taking diuretics like furosemide.
D. Low potassium does not directly cause hypoglycemia.
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