A client with cirrhosis has the following laboratory results: albumin 4.9 g/dl. (3.5-5 g/dL), PT 13 seconds (11-12.5 sec), and serum ammonia 68 mcg/dL (15-45 mcg/dL). Based on this information, what is the nurse's next action?
Assess level of consciousness
Assess for bleeding
Measure abdominal girth
Auscultate bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is A
A) Elevated serum ammonia levels can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, which affects mental status and consciousness, making this the priority assessment.
B) The PT is slightly prolonged but not alarmingly high; bleeding is less of a concern compared to the elevated ammonia.
C) This action is important in assessing fluid accumulation but is not as critical as assessing mental status in this scenario.
D) While part of a comprehensive abdominal assessment, this is not the most critical action given the elevated ammonia level.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Gallstones are a leading cause of acute pancreatitis as they can block the pancreatic duct.
B) While inflammation of the duodenum can cause abdominal symptoms, it does not directly lead to acute pancreatitis.
C) Diabetes results from the dysfunction of the pancreas after damage but does not cause acute pancreatitis.
D) Hepatitis C affects the liver and does not directly cause pancreatitis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Cirrhosis can lead to coagulopathy due to impaired synthesis of clotting factors by the liver, putting the client at high risk for bleeding.
B) While clients with cirrhosis may experience fatigue, it is not the priority problem indicated by the assessment data provided.
C) Decreased appetite and jaundice may affect nutritional status, but they do not pose an immediate threat compared to the risk of bleeding.
D) Jaundice can lead to pruritus and increased risk of skin breakdown, but it is not the priority problem indicated by the assessment data provided.
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