Review Liver Cirrhosis

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Liver Cirrhosis

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Total Questions : 25

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Question 1:

A client with liver cirrhosis is prescribed spironolactone to manage fluid retention. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor closely while the client is on this medication?

A. Serum potassium levels B. Blood glucose levels C. White blood cell count D. Serum calcium levels

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic commonly used to manage fluid retention in liver cirrhosis. The nurse should monitor the client's serum potassium levels regularly as this medication can cause hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels). It is important to assess potassium levels to avoid complications associated with imbalances in potassium levels.

Choice B:

Monitoring blood glucose levels is not specifically related to the use of spironolactone in liver cirrhosis. Spironolactone does not have a significant effect on blood glucose levels.

Choice C:

Monitoring the white blood cell count is not directly related to the use of spironolactone. White blood cell count is typically monitored to assess for signs of infection or immune system response.

Choice D:

Monitoring serum calcium levels is not directly related to the use of spironolactone in liver cirrhosis. Spironolactone does not significantly impact calcium levels in the blood.

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Question 2:

A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client with liver cirrhosis. Which statement by the nurse is appropriate regarding alcohol consumption?

A. "Moderate alcohol intake is acceptable, but avoid binge drinking." B. "You can resume your previous alcohol consumption habits." C. "It is essential to stop drinking alcohol completely." D. "Limit alcohol to only beer or wine but avoid hard liquor."

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

This statement is incorrect. Even moderate alcohol intake can be harmful to a client with liver cirrhosis. Alcohol should be completely avoided to prevent exacerbation of liver damage.

Choice B:

This statement is incorrect. The client should not resume their previous alcohol consumption habits. Continued alcohol consumption can lead to further liver damage and complications.

Choice C:

For a client with liver cirrhosis, alcohol consumption should be completely avoided. Alcohol is a significant contributor to liver damage and can worsen the condition, leading to further complications. Abstinence from alcohol is crucial to prevent further liver injury and improve the client's overall prognosis.

Choice D:

This statement is incorrect. The client should not consume any type of alcoholic beverage. All forms of alcohol can be harmful to the liver, and complete abstinence is necessary for individuals with liver cirrhosis.

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Question 3:

A client with liver cirrhosis has developed ascites. Which nursing intervention is a priority for managing this complication?

A. Encouraging the client to increase protein intake. B. Assisting the client with frequent ambulation. C. Administering diuretics as prescribed by the healthcare provider. D. Teaching the client deep breathing exercises.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

While adequate protein intake is important for overall health, encouraging the client to increase protein intake is not a priority in managing ascites. The priority is to address fluid retention through diuretic therapy.

Choice B:

While ambulation can be beneficial for clients with liver cirrhosis, it is not the priority for managing ascites. Diuretic therapy is more directly targeted at reducing fluid accumulation.

Choice C:

The priority nursing intervention for managing ascites in a client with liver cirrhosis is administering diuretics as prescribed by the healthcare provider. Diuretics help reduce fluid retention and alleviate the pressure caused by the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen. This intervention aims to improve the client's comfort and prevent the development of further complications associated with ascites.

Choice D:

Deep breathing exercises can be helpful for clients with liver cirrhosis, but they are not the priority for managing ascites. The focus should be on diuretic therapy and addressing the fluid retention in the abdomen.

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Question 4:

A client with a history of chronic hepatitis C infection asks the nurse about the risk of developing liver cirrhosis. Which response by the nurse is accurate?

A. "Hepatitis C infection does not increase the risk of liver cirrhosis." B. "The risk of liver cirrhosis is higher if you have hepatitis D co-infection." C. "Liver cirrhosis is more likely to develop if you have a history of hepatitis B." D. "Chronic hepatitis C infection can lead to liver cirrhosis over time."

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

This statement is incorrect. Chronic hepatitis C infection is a significant risk factor for liver cirrhosis, and individuals with this infection require regular monitoring and appropriate medical management to prevent or delay the progression of cirrhosis.

Choice B:

While hepatitis D co-infection can worsen the course of chronic hepatitis B or C infection, it does not diminish the significance of hepatitis C infection as a risk factor for liver cirrhosis.

Choice C:

While chronic hepatitis B infection is also a known risk factor for liver cirrhosis, the client's history of hepatitis C infection is more relevant to the risk of developing cirrhosis in this case.

Choice D:

Chronic hepatitis C infection is a well-established risk factor for liver cirrhosis. The hepatitis C virus causes persistent inflammation in the liver, leading to liver cell damage and scarring (fibrosis). Over time, this fibrosis can progress to cirrhosis, which is the advanced stage of liver damage.

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Question 5:

A client with liver cirrhosis is found to have elevated iron levels in their blood. Which genetic disorder should the nurse suspect as a possible cause of these findings?

A. Hemochromatosis B. Wilson's disease C. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency D. Primary biliary cholangitis

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder characterized by excessive iron absorption from the diet, leading to the accumulation of iron in various organs, including the liver. In individuals with hemochromatosis, the excess iron can cause liver cell injury and lead to cirrhosis over time.

Choice B:

Wilson's disease is a genetic disorder that causes impaired copper metabolism, leading to copper accumulation in the liver and other organs. While it can lead to liver damage, it is not associated with elevated iron levels.

Choice C:

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and liver. It can lead to liver disease, but it does not cause elevated iron levels.

Choice D:

Primary biliary cholangitis is an autoimmune liver disease that primarily affects the small bile ducts within the liver. While it can lead to liver damage and cirrhosis, it is not associated with elevated iron levels.

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Question 6:

A nurse is assessing a client with suspected liver cirrhosis. Which clinical manifestation should the nurse expect to find as an early sign of the condition?

A. Jaundice B. Ascites C. Spider angiomas D. Hepatic encephalopathy

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) typically appears later in the course of liver cirrhosis and is usually associated with more advanced liver damage.

Choice B:

Ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, is a later manifestation of liver cirrhosis and usually occurs after significant liver damage has occurred.

Choice C:

Spider angiomas, also known as spider nevi or spider telangiectasias, are dilated blood vessels that appear as small red spots with tiny radiating legs. They are a common early sign of liver cirrhosis and result from increased pressure in the superficial blood vessels due to impaired liver function. Spider angiomas are often found on the face, neck, upper trunk, and arms.

Choice D:

Hepatic encephalopathy, a neuropsychiatric complication of advanced liver disease, is also a later manifestation of liver cirrhosis and is not an early sign of the condition.

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Question 7:

A client with liver cirrhosis complains of difficulty sleeping at night due to frequent awakenings caused by shortness of breath. Which complication should the nurse suspect as the most likely cause of the client's symptom?

A. Hepatocellular carcinoma B. Portal hypertension C. Hepatic encephalopathy D. Hepatopulmonary syndrome

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a type of liver cancer and can be a complication of liver cirrhosis. However, it is not typically associated with difficulty sleeping or shortness of breath.

Choice B:

Portal hypertension, a common complication of liver cirrhosis, can lead to the development of ascites and esophageal varices, among other manifestations. It is not the likely cause of the client's difficulty sleeping and shortness of breath.

Choice C:

Hepatic encephalopathy is a neuropsychiatric complication of advanced liver disease and is not associated with difficulty sleeping or shortness of breath.

Choice D:

Hepatopulmonary syndrome is a complication of liver cirrhosis characterized by the development of pulmonary vascular dilation and arteriovenous shunting. This results in impaired oxygenation of blood, leading to difficulty breathing (dyspnea), especially while lying down (orthopnea). Clients with hepatopulmonary syndrome often experience frequent awakenings due to shortness of breath during sleep.

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Question 8:

A client with liver cirrhosis is found to have visible distended veins on the abdomen and chest. Which term should the nurse use to document this finding?

A. Hematemesis B. Ascites C. Splenomegaly D. Varices

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Hematemesis refers to vomiting of blood and is a symptom that can occur as a result of bleeding from esophageal varices or other gastrointestinal sources.

Choice B:

Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, leading to abdominal distension. It is not related to the presence of visible distended veins on the abdomen and chest.

Choice C:

Splenomegaly is the enlargement of the spleen and is not related to the finding of visible distended veins.

Choice D:

Varices are dilated and tortuous veins that can develop in various locations, including the esophagus (esophageal varices) and the abdomen and chest wall (caput medusae). In liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension causes increased pressure in the portal vein, leading to the development of these enlarged veins. Esophageal varices can be life-threatening if they rupture and cause severe bleeding.

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Question 9:

A client with liver cirrhosis complains of severe itching. Which term should the nurse use to document this symptom?

A. Jaundice B. Pruritus C. Hematemesis D. Ascites

Answer and Explanation

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Question 10:

A nurse is assessing a client with liver cirrhosis and observes that the client has altered mental status and confusion. Which action should the nurse take first?

A. Administer pain medication to alleviate discomfort. B. Document the findings and continue monitoring the client. C. Obtain an order for a liver biopsy to assess liver function. D. Notify the healthcare provider immediately.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Pain medication is not appropriate for managing altered mental status and confusion. The priority is to identify and address the underlying cause of the client's symptoms.

Choice B:

While documentation and ongoing monitoring are important, the priority is to take immediate action when the client is exhibiting signs of altered mental status. The nurse should promptly notify the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.

Choice C:

A liver biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that provides information about the degree of liver damage and fibrosis. However, it is not the first action to take when the client is experiencing altered mental status and confusion. Immediate notification of the healthcare provider is the priority in this situation.

Choice D:

Altered mental status and confusion in a client with liver cirrhosis can indicate hepatic encephalopathy, a serious complication of advanced liver disease. Hepatic encephalopathy results from the accumulation of toxic substances in the blood due to impaired liver function. The nurse should prioritize notifying the healthcare provider immediately to initiate appropriate interventions and prevent further deterioration of the client's condition.

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Question 11:

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client suspected to have liver cirrhosis. Which finding should the nurse expect to be elevated, indicating impaired liver function?

A. Serum albumin levels B. Prothrombin time (PT) C. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels D. Total bilirubin levels

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Serum albumin is a protein synthesized by the liver, and its levels are often decreased in advanced liver cirrhosis due to impaired liver function. However, the question asks for an elevated finding, not a decreased one.

Choice B:

Prothrombin time (PT) measures the time it takes for blood to clot. In liver cirrhosis, PT is often prolonged due to impaired liver function and reduced production of clotting factors. However, the question asks for an elevated finding, not a prolonged one.

Choice C:

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found in the liver and other organs. While AST levels may be elevated in liver cirrhosis, it is not a specific marker for liver cirrhosis, and its elevation can occur in various liver diseases and conditions.

Choice D:

In liver cirrhosis, impaired liver function leads to reduced clearance of bilirubin, resulting in elevated total bilirubin levels in the blood. Elevated bilirubin is a common finding in liver cirrhosis and can contribute to jaundice.

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Question 12:

A client with suspected liver cirrhosis is scheduled for a diagnostic imaging test. Which imaging modality is commonly used to assess the liver's size, shape, and structure in clients with cirrhosis?

A. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) B. Positron emission tomography (PET) C. Computed tomography (CT) scan D. Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

While MRI is also used to assess the liver, it may not be the first-line imaging modality for assessing the size and structure of the liver in clients with cirrhosis.

Choice B:

PET scans are mainly used to evaluate cellular metabolism and tissue function, including cancerous cells. While it can be helpful in detecting liver tumors, it may not be the primary choice for assessing liver size and structure in cirrhosis.

Choice C:

Computed tomography (CT) scan is commonly used to assess the liver's size, shape, and structure in clients with liver cirrhosis. CT provides detailed cross-sectional images of the liver, helping to identify any abnormalities, including liver nodules, fibrosis, and signs of portal hypertension.

Choice D:

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test used to record electrical activity in the brain. It is not used to assess the liver's size, shape, or structure in clients with liver cirrhosis.

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Question 13:

A nurse is caring for a client with liver cirrhosis and notices that the client's platelet count is significantly decreased. Which complication of liver cirrhosis is the likely cause of this finding?

A. Portal hypertension B. Ascites C. Hepatocellular carcinoma D. Splenomegaly

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

In liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension occurs due to increased pressure in the portal vein, which carries blood from the intestines to the liver. The increased pressure leads to the development of portosystemic collaterals (collateral circulation) to divert blood flow. This can cause hypersplenism, a condition where the spleen becomes enlarged and traps platelets, leading to a decreased platelet count (thrombocytopenia).

Choice B:

Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is not directly related to a decreased platelet count.

Choice C:

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a type of liver cancer and can be a complication of liver cirrhosis. However, it is not the likely cause of the client's decreased platelet count.

Choice D:

Splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen) can occur in liver cirrhosis due to portal hypertension. However, splenomegaly itself is not the cause of the decreased platelet count; it is the hypersplenism resulting from the splenomegaly that causes thrombocytopenia.

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Question 14:

A client with suspected liver cirrhosis undergoes a liver biopsy. Which nursing action is essential following the procedure?

A. Encouraging the client to lie on the right side. B. Administering pain medication as needed. C. Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours. D. Instructing the client to maintain a supine position for 12 hours.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Encouraging the client to lie on the right side after a liver biopsy is essential because this position helps to apply pressure to the biopsy site, reducing the risk of bleeding.

Choice B:

Pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort after a liver biopsy, but it is not the essential action to take following the procedure.

Choice C:

While vital signs should be monitored post-procedure, the most critical action is instructing the client to maintain a supine position for 12 hours to prevent bleeding complications.

Choice D:

Although maintaining a supine position is typically advised, the focus should be on the right side position to ensure proper hemostasis following the biopsy procedure.

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Question 15:

A client with liver cirrhosis has been referred for transient elastography. What is the primary purpose of this diagnostic test?

A. To assess the severity of esophageal varices. B. To evaluate liver function and enzyme levels. C. To measure liver stiffness and assess fibrosis. D. To identify hepatic encephalopathy.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Transient elastography is not used to assess esophageal varices. Endoscopy is the primary method for diagnosing and grading the severity of esophageal varices in clients with liver cirrhosis.

Choice B:

Transient elastography is primarily used to assess the degree of liver fibrosis, not to evaluate liver function or enzyme levels. Liver function and enzyme levels are typically evaluated through blood tests, such as liver function tests (LFTs), which measure liver enzymes, bilirubin, albumin, and other markers of liver health and function.

Choice C:

Transient elastography is a non-invasive imaging technique used to assess liver stiffness, which correlates with the degree of fibrosis in the liver. It provides information about the presence and severity of liver fibrosis, aiding in the diagnosis and staging of liver cirrhosis.

Choice D:

Transient elastography is not used to identify hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatic encephalopathy is a neuropsychiatric complication of advanced liver disease, and its diagnosis is based on clinical assessment, mental status evaluation, and laboratory tests. Transient elastography is not involved in identifying or diagnosing hepatic encephalopathy.

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Question 16:

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client with liver cirrhosis. Which dietary modification should the nurse recommend to the client?

A. Increase protein intake to promote liver tissue repair. B. Consume a high-sodium diet to maintain fluid balance. C. Limit fluid intake to reduce the risk of ascites. D. Restrict alcohol consumption completely.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

While adequate protein intake is necessary for overall health, excessive protein intake may worsen hepatic encephalopathy in some clients with liver cirrhosis. The priority for this client is to avoid alcohol consumption, not necessarily to increase protein intake.

Choice B:

Clients with liver cirrhosis and associated ascites should be on a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention and prevent complications related to ascites.

Choice C:

Limiting fluid intake is not a standard recommendation for clients with liver cirrhosis. Instead, clients with ascites may be advised to follow a low-sodium diet and, if necessary, restrict fluid intake under the guidance of their healthcare provider.

Choice D:

For a client with liver cirrhosis, the most crucial dietary modification is to restrict alcohol consumption completely. Alcohol is a major contributing factor to liver damage and can exacerbate cirrhosis. Abstinence from alcohol is essential to prevent further liver injury and improve the client's overall prognosis.

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Question 17:

A client with liver cirrhosis is experiencing episodes of hepatic encephalopathy. Which medication should the nurse anticipate administering to help reduce ammonia levels in the blood?

A. Lactulose B. Furosemide C. Propranolol D. Spironolactone

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Lactulose is a medication commonly used to treat hepatic encephalopathy in clients with liver cirrhosis. Lactulose works by reducing the absorption of ammonia from the intestines, thereby lowering the levels of ammonia in the blood. This helps to alleviate the neurologic symptoms associated with hepatic encephalopathy.

Choice B:

Furosemide is a diuretic used to treat fluid retention in clients with cirrhosis but is not effective in reducing ammonia levels or managing hepatic encephalopathy.

Choice C:

Propranolol is a beta-blocker often prescribed to reduce portal hypertension and prevent variceal bleeding in clients with liver cirrhosis. It is not used to treat hepatic encephalopathy.

Choice D:

Spironolactone is a diuretic used to manage fluid retention and ascites in clients with liver cirrhosis. Like furosemide, it is not effective in reducing ammonia levels or treating hepatic encephalopathy.

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Question 18:

A client with liver cirrhosis presents with severe ascites. Which procedure should the nurse anticipate being performed to drain the accumulated fluid from the peritoneal cavity?

A. Paracentesis B. Thoracentesis C. Pleurodesis D. Pericardiocentesis

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Paracentesis is a procedure in which a needle or catheter is inserted into the peritoneal cavity to drain the accumulated fluid in clients with ascites. This procedure is performed to relieve abdominal pressure and discomfort, as well as to facilitate diagnostic testing on the ascitic fluid.

Choice B:

Thoracentesis is a procedure to drain fluid from the pleural cavity, which is the space surrounding the lungs. It is not used to treat ascites.

Choice C:

Pleurodesis is a procedure performed to create adhesions between the two layers of the pleura to prevent recurrent pleural effusions (fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity). It is not used to treat ascites.

Choice D:

Pericardiocentesis is a procedure to drain fluid from the pericardial sac surrounding the heart. It is not used to treat ascites.

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Question 19:

A client with liver cirrhosis is at risk of developing esophageal varices. Which medication should the nurse expect to be prescribed to reduce the risk of bleeding from these varices?

A. Lactulose B. Omeprazole C. Furosemide D. Propranolol

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Lactulose is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy and is not prescribed to reduce the risk of bleeding from esophageal varices.

Choice B:

Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used to reduce stomach acid production and treat conditions such as peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While it may be prescribed to manage gastritis or peptic ulcers, it is not primarily used to reduce the risk of bleeding from esophageal varices.

Choice C:

Furosemide is a diuretic used to manage fluid retention and ascites in clients with liver cirrhosis. It is not prescribed to reduce the risk of bleeding from esophageal varices.

Choice D:

Propranolol is a beta-blocker commonly used to reduce the risk of bleeding from esophageal varices in clients with liver cirrhosis. Propranolol helps decrease portal hypertension by reducing the pressure in the portal vein, thereby reducing the likelihood of variceal rupture and bleeding.

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Question 20:

A client with liver cirrhosis is admitted to the hospital with hepatic encephalopathy. Which nursing intervention is essential in the care of this client?

A. Administering iron supplements as prescribed. B. Monitoring fluid intake and output. C. Implementing seizure precautions. D. Encouraging high-protein diet intake.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Iron supplements are not a priority intervention for a client with hepatic encephalopathy. In fact, administering iron supplements without proper indication can be harmful, as excessive iron can worsen liver damage in cirrhosis.

Choice B:

While monitoring fluid intake and output is important in managing various aspects of liver cirrhosis, it is not the essential intervention for hepatic encephalopathy. The priority in hepatic encephalopathy is to ensure seizure precautions and address the client's altered mental status.

Choice C:

Hepatic encephalopathy is a neuropsychiatric complication of liver cirrhosis that can lead to altered mental status, confusion, and potential seizures. Implementing seizure precautions is essential in the care of this client to ensure their safety and prevent injury during any potential seizure activity. Seizure precautions may include padding the side rails of the bed, ensuring a clear and clutter-free environment, and providing close supervision to the client. In severe cases, the healthcare provider may prescribe antiepileptic medications to manage and prevent seizures.

Choice D:

Encouraging a high-protein diet is not appropriate for a client with hepatic encephalopathy. High-protein diets can exacerbate hepatic encephalopathy by increasing ammonia production in the intestines. Instead, the client should be prescribed a controlled-protein diet and, in some cases, given lactulose to help reduce ammonia levels.

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Question 21:

A client with liver cirrhosis is at risk of developing esophageal varices. Which nursing intervention is essential in the care of this client?

A. Administering iron supplements to promote blood clotting. B. Monitoring fluid balance and daily weights. C. Elevating the head of the bed to prevent aspiration. D. Encouraging the client to avoid straining during bowel movements.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Iron supplements are not indicated in the care of a client with liver cirrhosis and esophageal varices. The client's condition is related to portal hypertension and the risk of variceal bleeding, not blood clotting.

Choice B:

Monitoring fluid balance and daily weights is important in managing clients with liver cirrhosis, especially those with ascites. However, it is not the essential intervention specific to clients at risk of developing esophageal varices.

Choice C:

Elevating the head of the bed is a standard intervention to prevent aspiration in clients with various medical conditions. However, it is not the essential intervention specific to clients at risk of esophageal varices.

Choice D:

Encouraging the client to avoid straining during bowel movements is essential in the care of a client at risk of developing esophageal varices. Straining during bowel movements can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which may lead to increased pressure in the portal vein, potentially exacerbating portal hypertension and increasing the risk of variceal bleeding.

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Question 22:

A client with liver cirrhosis is experiencing fluid retention and abdominal distension due to ascites. Which nursing intervention is essential to manage this complication?

A. Restricting fluid intake to reduce edema. B. Encouraging the client to consume a high-sodium diet. C. Assisting with paracentesis to drain the ascitic fluid. D. Administering diuretics to promote urine output.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Restricting fluid intake is not appropriate for managing ascites in clients with liver cirrhosis. Ascites occurs due to fluid accumulation in the peritoneal cavity and is not primarily influenced by oral fluid intake.

Choice B:

Encouraging a high-sodium diet is contraindicated in clients with ascites. High sodium intake can exacerbate fluid retention and worsen ascites. Instead, clients with ascites should be on a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid accumulation.

Choice C:

In a client with liver cirrhosis experiencing fluid retention and abdominal distension due to ascites, paracentesis is an essential intervention to drain the accumulated ascitic fluid from the abdominal cavity. Paracentesis helps to relieve discomfort, improve respiratory function, and reduce intra-abdominal pressure.

Choice D:

Diuretics are used in the management of ascites to promote urine output and reduce fluid retention. However, paracentesis is a more immediate intervention for relieving discomfort and removing a large volume of ascitic fluid.

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Question 23:

A client with liver cirrhosis is prescribed lactulose to manage hepatic encephalopathy. What should the nurse instruct the client about taking this medication?

A. "Take lactulose with meals to enhance its effectiveness." B. "Expect one to two soft bowel movements per day while on lactulose." C. "Limit your fluid intake while on lactulose to prevent fluid overload." D. "Monitor your blood glucose levels frequently while taking lactulose."

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

While lactulose can be taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort, its effectiveness is not necessarily enhanced by taking it with meals. The timing and dosage of lactulose should be based on the healthcare provider's instructions.

Choice B:

Lactulose is a medication commonly used to manage hepatic encephalopathy in clients with liver cirrhosis. It works by reducing ammonia levels in the blood by promoting the excretion of ammonia through the stool. The nurse should instruct the client to expect one to two soft bowel movements per day while on lactulose, as this indicates the medication's effectiveness in removing ammonia from the body.

Choice C:

Lactulose is not associated with fluid overload, and there is no need to limit fluid intake while taking the medication. In fact, adequate hydration is important in clients with liver cirrhosis.

Choice D:

Lactulose is not known to significantly affect blood glucose levels, and there is no specific need for the client to monitor blood glucose levels while taking this medication.

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Question 24:

A client with liver cirrhosis is at risk of bleeding due to decreased synthesis of clotting factors. Which nursing intervention is essential in preventing bleeding episodes?

A. Encouraging frequent ambulation and leg exercises. B. Applying cold packs to areas of potential bleeding. C. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush for oral care. D. Administering intramuscular injections cautiously.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

While ambulation and leg exercises are essential for maintaining overall health, they are not directly related to preventing bleeding episodes in clients with liver cirrhosis. The risk of bleeding in these clients is primarily related to clotting factor synthesis impairment.

Choice B:

Applying cold packs can help reduce swelling and inflammation but may not be the most appropriate intervention for preventing bleeding episodes in clients with liver cirrhosis. Cold packs may have limited effectiveness in addressing the underlying clotting factor deficiency.

Choice C:

Clients with liver cirrhosis may experience impaired clotting due to decreased synthesis of clotting factors by the liver. To prevent bleeding episodes, using a soft-bristle toothbrush for oral care is essential. A soft-bristle toothbrush is gentler on the gums and oral tissues, reducing the risk of causing trauma or bleeding during oral hygiene practices.

Choice D:

While it is important to administer intramuscular injections cautiously in clients with clotting disorders, this intervention is not the most essential for preventing bleeding episodes. Clients with liver cirrhosis are at risk of bleeding primarily due to the liver's decreased synthesis of clotting factors, not necessarily due to intramuscular injections.

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Question 25:

A nurse is providing community education on the risk factors for liver cirrhosis. Which risk factor should the nurse emphasize as the leading cause of liver cirrhosis?

A. Chronic viral hepatitis (B, C, or D) B. Alcohol abuse C. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) D. Autoimmune hepatitis

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Chronic viral hepatitis is a significant risk factor for liver cirrhosis, especially in regions where these viruses are prevalent. However, alcohol abuse is considered the leading cause of liver cirrhosis.

Choice B:

Among the listed risk factors, alcohol abuse is the leading cause of liver cirrhosis in many parts of the world. Prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption can directly damage liver cells, leading to inflammation and subsequent scarring. The risk of developing cirrhosis is closely related to the amount and duration of alcohol consumption.

Choice C:

NAFLD is a growing concern and a leading cause of liver disease globally. It is strongly associated with obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. While NAFLD is a significant risk factor for liver cirrhosis, alcohol abuse holds the highest association with cirrhosis.

Choice D:

Autoimmune hepatitis is an immune-mediated liver disease that can lead to chronic inflammation and cirrhosis if not properly managed. While it is a risk factor for cirrhosis, alcohol abuse remains the leading cause of the condition.

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