A nurse is caring for a patient with hepatic encephalopathy. The nurse's assessment reveals that the patient exhibits episodes of confusion, is difficult to arouse from sleep and has rigid extremities.
Based on these clinical findings, the nurse should document what stage of hepatic encephalopathy?
Stage 4
Stage 3
Stage 1
Stage 2
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
This presentation of hepatic encephalopathy includes severe manifestations, such as profound confusion, difficulty in arousal, and the presence of rigidity, indicating advanced neurological impairment. This places the patient in Stage 4, which is the most severe stage of hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice B reason:
Stage 3 is characterized by severe symptoms, such as drowsiness, anxiety, seizures, severe personality changes, confused speech, and shaky hands.
Choice C reason:
Stage 1 is characterized by mild symptoms, such as difficulty thinking, personality changes, poor concentration, and problems with handwriting.
Choice D reason
Stage 2 is characterized moderate symptoms, such as confusion, forgetfulness, poor judgment, and a musty or sweet breath odor.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A shiny, moist stoma is generally a healthy sign, indicating good blood supply and adequate hydration of the stoma tissue. It is not a cause for concern.
Choice B reason:
A rosebud-like stoma orifice is a normal appearance for some types of stomas. It indicates a healthy stoma with good blood supply. This finding is expected and does not warrant concern.
Choice C reason:
A purplish-colored stoma may indicate compromised blood supply to the stoma, which is a serious concern and should be reported to the provider promptly. It may suggest inadequate blood flow to the stoma, which could lead to tissue necrosis.
Choice D reason:
Stoma oozing red drainage may be normal immediately postoperatively. It can be due to some oozing from the surgical site, and if it's minimal and stops after a short while, it's generally not a cause for concern.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While diarrhea can be a symptom of peptic ulcer disease, it is not typically considered a priority over more severe symptoms.
Choice B reason:
Dyspepsia (indigestion) is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease, but it is not the priority over more concerning symptoms.
Choice C reason:
Epigastric discomfort is a symptom of peptic ulcer disease, but it is not the priority over more severe symptoms like hematemesis.
Choice D reason:
Hematemesis (vomiting blood) is a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom of peptic ulcer disease. It is the top priority for assessment and intervention.
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