A nurse is collecting data from a client who has cirrhosis of the liver. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Clay-colored stools
Confusion
Spider angiomas
Jaundice
The Correct Answer is B
A. Clay-colored stools: Clay-colored stools indicate a lack of bile flow due to liver dysfunction, which is expected in cirrhosis. While concerning, it is not the most urgent finding compared to signs indicating acute neurological compromise.
B. Confusion: Confusion suggests hepatic encephalopathy, a serious complication of cirrhosis resulting from the buildup of toxins like ammonia in the bloodstream. It indicates potential cerebral impairment and requires immediate provider notification and intervention to prevent progression to coma.
C. Spider angiomas: Spider angiomas are small, dilated blood vessels visible on the skin, commonly seen in cirrhosis due to hormonal changes and altered vascular dynamics. They are a chronic sign of liver disease and do not represent an immediate threat.
D. Jaundice: Jaundice results from elevated bilirubin levels due to impaired liver function. While jaundice signals worsening liver disease, it develops gradually and is less immediately life-threatening than the onset of neurological symptoms like confusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I will empty the pouch every 2 to 3 hours.": While it is important to empty the pouch when it is about one-third to half full, emptying it every 2 to 3 hours is unnecessary unless output is extremely high. Frequent emptying is based on the volume of stool, not strict timing.
B. "I will no longer be able to eat nuts.": Clients with a sigmoid colostomy typically resume a normal diet after healing, including nuts, unless otherwise instructed. Nuts are more commonly restricted after ileostomies due to the risk of obstruction, not sigmoid colostomies.
C. "I should expect my stool to be unformed.": Stool from a sigmoid colostomy is usually formed or semi-formed because it comes from the end of the colon where water absorption has mostly occurred. Unformed stool is more characteristic of ileostomies.
D. "I will notify my doctor if the stoma starts to look purple.": A healthy stoma should appear pink to red and moist. A purple, dark, or dusky stoma indicates impaired blood flow or ischemia and requires immediate medical evaluation to prevent serious complications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Leg cramps: Leg cramps are a common and expected discomfort during the later stages of pregnancy. They usually result from changes in circulation, pressure from the growing uterus, or altered calcium and magnesium levels.
B. Blurred vision: Blurred vision is a concerning finding in pregnancy as it can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious hypertensive disorder that poses risks to both the mother and fetus. It requires immediate evaluation by the provider.
C. Urinary frequency: Urinary frequency is a common symptom in late pregnancy due to the pressure of the enlarging uterus on the bladder. It is typically expected unless accompanied by signs of infection.
D. Gingivitis: Gingivitis can occur during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that affect gum tissue. While it should be managed with good oral hygiene, it is not an urgent concern requiring immediate reporting.
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