A patient presents to the emergency department (ED) with malaise, nausea and "yellow eyes." A diagnosis of hepatitis A (HAV) is confirmed. Which statement, by the registered nurse (RN), indicates an understanding of this illness?

A. The patient is now sleepy and won't wake up: Increased drowsiness or difficulty waking up could indicate worsening of the hemorrhagic stroke, potentially due to increased intracranial pressure or a secondary brain injury.

B. Identification of an elevated serum cholesterol level: Elevated cholesterol is a risk factor for ischemic strokes but is not a direct indicator of complications from a hemorrhagic stroke.

C. The presence of nausea and a headache: This could be a common symptom following a hemorrhagic stroke but is not necessarily a specific indicator of a complication.

D. A complaint of neck pain and light intolerance: These symptoms are less specific to complications of a hemorrhagic stroke and could be related to other issues.

A. Hyperproteinemia and increased drug effect: In cirrhosis, hypoproteinemia (low protein levels) occurs due to decreased protein synthesis by the liver, and drug metabolism is often impaired, leading to increased drug effects, but hyperproteinemia is not a typical finding.

B. Hyperkalemia and fluid retention: While fluid retention is common due to hypoalbuminemia and portal hypertension, hyperkalemia is not a direct consequence of hepatocyte dysfunction.

C. Hypercortisolism and increased infection risk: Hypercortisolism is not typically associated with cirrhosis. However, increased infection risk is common due to compromised immune function.

D. An elevated blood glucose and ammonia level: In cirrhosis, the liver's ability to metabolize ammonia is impaired, leading to elevated levels. Additionally, impaired glucose metabolism can result in hyperglycemia.