The outpatient clinic nurse prepares to teach a client newly diagnosed with hepatitis B. Which instruction should the nurse give?
Alcohol consumption will not affect recovery in the acute phase of illness.
Hepatitis B has a short incubation period
Hepatitis B is not a risk factor for cirrhosis and liver cancer
Most clients with hepatitis B recover and clear the virus from their system.
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. This is incorrect because alcohol is directly toxic to the liver. Even during an acute hepatitis B infection, consuming alcohol can worsen liver inflammation, prolong recovery, and increase the risk of complications. The nurse should instruct the client to completely avoid alcohol to protect liver function and promote healing.
B. This is incorrect because hepatitis B has a relatively long incubation period, typically ranging from 6 weeks to 6 months. Misunderstanding the incubation period could lead the client to misinterpret the timing of symptom onset or the risk of transmitting the virus to others. Accurate knowledge helps clients monitor symptoms and understand the course of illness.
C. Chronic hepatitis B infection is a well-established risk factor for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Educating clients about these long-term risks is essential so they understand the importance of follow-up care, liver function monitoring, and lifestyle modifications.
D. In adults, about 90% of acute hepatitis B infections resolve spontaneously, with the immune system clearing the virus. Clients who recover develop immunity, which provides protection against future infections. This statement provides reassurance, emphasizes a positive prognosis, and is accurate for client education. It also helps reduce anxiety associated with a new diagnosis and encourages adherence to follow-up care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. While hepatitis can cause liver injury, antibodies do not provide information about current clotting ability or bleeding risk. They indicate past exposure or immunity, not active coagulopathy.
B. Platelets are critical for primary hemostasis, and clients with liver cirrhosis often develop thrombocytopenia due to splenic sequestration or decreased production of thrombopoietin. Low platelet counts increase the risk of bruising and bleeding, which correlates with the observed ecchymoses.
C. Elevated ammonia is associated with hepatic encephalopathy, not directly with bleeding or bruising. Monitoring ammonia is important for neurological status but not for coagulation.
D. Liver cirrhosis impairs the synthesis of clotting factors, leading to prolonged PT, INR, and aPTT. Ecchymosis may indicate coagulopathy, so monitoring coagulation studies helps assess the severity of the bleeding risk.
E. Albumin reflects synthetic liver function and nutritional status, but low albumin itself does not directly cause bruising. While hypoalbuminemia may indicate advanced liver disease, it does not provide immediate information about bleeding risk.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Applying ice packs can help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling. However, ice does not address the immediate risk of vascular compromise caused by constrictive rings. Ice packs are considered a secondary intervention after the rings have been removed.
B. Calamine lotion provides symptomatic relief of itching, but it does not prevent circulatory compromise or tissue damage. This is a low-priority comfort measure in the acute setting.
C. This is the highest-priority action. Bee stings often cause rapid localized swelling, and rings can act as constrictive bands, which may impair venous and arterial blood flow, leading to ischemia, pain, or tissue necrosis. Removing rings immediately prevents these serious complications and protects tissue viability.
D. Oral diphenhydramine can help reduce itching and mild allergic reactions, but its onset is delayed and it does not address immediate circulation concerns caused by swelling. It is a supportive intervention after urgent priorities are addressed.
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