A patient with portal hypertension and hepatic encephalopathy asks why meat is being restricted in the diet. The nurse explains that a reduced protein diet will:
1. Help to restore his liver function
2. Help decrease the amount of ammonia in his blood
3. Give the liver a chance to rest
4. Prevent fluid from leaking into the abdomen
2
Rationale 1: Dietary restriction does not restore liver function but instead lower the production of ammonia.
Rationale 2: The goal of treatment is to reduce ammonia production and/or increasing its removal and lower elevated ammonia levels. This may occur by a variety of methods. One method is limiting the amount of protein in the diet.
Rationale 3: Restricting protein in the diet does not rest the liver.
Rationale 4: Ascites can be controlled with sodium and fluid restriction, the use of diuretics, and intermittent administration of salt-poor albumin.
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Which assessment finding will cause the nurse to begin teaching a patient because the patient is ready to learn?
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