A client with chronic hepatitis asks the nurse about common signs and symptoms. How should the nurse respond?

A) Incorrect. Not all over-the-counter pain relievers are safe for individuals with cirrhosis. Some, like acetaminophen, can be harmful to the liver.

B) Correct. Over-the-counter pain relievers containing acetaminophen should be avoided in individuals with cirrhosis, as it can lead to further liver damage.

C) Incorrect. While over-the-counter pain relievers can be effective for managing pain, not all of them are safe for individuals with cirrhosis.

D) Incorrect. Aspirin, like other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can also be harmful to individuals with cirrhosis and should be used with caution or avoided.

A) Incorrect. While exposure to environmental toxins can contribute to liver damage, it is not the primary cause of cirrhosis.

B) Correct. Cirrhosis is the result of chronic, progressive liver damage and scarring, often stemming from various underlying liver diseases, such as chronic viral hepatitis, excessive alcohol consumption, or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

C) Incorrect. This describes autoimmune hepatitis, where the immune system attacks liver cells, but it is not the cause of cirrhosis.

D) Incorrect. Cirrhosis is primarily caused by chronic liver damage, not genetic factors.