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) 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
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.
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.
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.