The nurse is assessing a patient with liver cirrhosis. Which findings should the nurse relate to the patient's failed liver function?
Select all that apply.
1. The patient had two episodes of epistaxis.
2. The patient had toxic levels of a prescribed medication.
3. The patient is oriented to person and place but not to time.
4. The patient's urinary output has decreased.
5. The patient has cholelithiasis.
Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3
The liver produces clotting factors. Two episodes of epistaxis are likely related to the patient's liver failure. The liver metabolizes medications. Toxic levels of prescribed medication in the absence of other factors are likely related to liver failure. The patient who is disoriented may be experiencing high serum ammonia levels, an effect of liver failure. Decreased urinary output is not associated with liver failure, but with kidney failure. Cholelithiasis is not caused by liver failure.
You might also like to view...
A patient recently lost a job as a salesperson. Which behaviors would indicate that the patient is experiencing stress? (Select all that apply.)
a. Patient describes the desire to sleep a great deal due to fatigue. b. Patient states a decrease in participating in usual church activities. c. Patient seems to have difficulty selecting items from a menu. d. Patient is reading the newspaper and online job listings daily. e. Patient continues to spend time with her dog at the dog park.
Although many communicable diseases have been eradicated, new ones are appearing or old ones are morphing into new forms. Which of the following fall into the category of those not yet eradicated?
A. Multiple drug resistant tuberculosis (MDRTB) B. Smallpox C. West Nile Virus D. Both 1 and 3
The nurse asked the family about its financial resources and the demands on these resources. This is an example of:
1. Biological risks 2. Economic risks 3. Lifestyle risks 4. Social risks
Which response by the nurse is accurate when a patient who has been on lamotrigine (Lamictal) for seizure control reports a skin rash and urticaria?
a. Reassure the patient that this is a common adverse effect of the medication and not to worry. b. Instruct the patient to discontinue use of the drug immediately. c. Instruct the patient to decrease the dosage of the medication until the rash disappears. d. Advise the patient that this adverse effect usually resolves but should be reported to the health care provider.