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

To assess the severity of esophageal varices.

To evaluate liver function and enzyme levels.

To measure liver stiffness and assess fibrosis.

To identify hepatic encephalopathy.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

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.

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.

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.

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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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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.

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.

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.

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

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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

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