From an online ATI/HESI MCQ: A nurse is caring for a pregnant client with hepatitis

Choice A rationale:

Fulminant hepatitis is a severe and life-threatening complication of hepatitis E, particularly in pregnant women. It can lead to liver failure, and timely monitoring is crucial to detect any early signs of deterioration in the patient's condition. Pregnant women with hepatitis E require close observation and frequent assessment of liver function to ensure prompt intervention if needed.

Choice B rationale:

Administering hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) to exposed contacts is not the priority in managing a patient with hepatitis

E. Hepatitis E is caused by a different virus (hepatitis E virus) and is not effectively prevented by hepatitis B immunoglobulin.

Choice C rationale:

Educating the patient about the benefits of hepatitis C vaccine is not relevant to the care of a patient with hepatitis

E. These are two different types of viral hepatitis, caused by distinct viruses (hepatitis C virus and hepatitis E virus), and each requires specific management.

Choice D rationale:

Advising the patient to avoid sexual contact until cleared of infection is important in some cases, but it is not the priority intervention for a patient with hepatitis

E. The primary concern in hepatitis E is monitoring for complications, especially in pregnant women, as discussed in choice A rationale.

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring vital signs and mental status is crucial in patients with suspected hepatitis as they may develop complications such as hepatic encephalopathy, which can lead to changes in mental status.

Choice B rationale:

Administering prescribed medications and fluids is important to support the patient's liver function and manage symptoms of hepatitis. Antiviral medications may be used to treat certain types of viral hepatitis.

Choice C rationale:

Educating the patient about hepatitis vaccines is not applicable in a patient with suspected hepatitis since vaccines are used for prevention and are not effective in treating an ongoing infection.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the patient to engage in high-impact exercise is not recommended in patients with suspected hepatitis, as strenuous physical activity may worsen hepatic injury or lead to complications.

Choice E rationale:

Implementing infection control measures to prevent transmission is crucial in suspected hepatitis cases, as the disease can spread through contact with contaminated blood or body fluids. Standard precautions should be followed to prevent healthcare-associated infections and protect others from contracting the virus.