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) 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.