What nursing intervention can help alleviate pruritus in a client with cirrhosis?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Applying emollients to the skin. Pruritus is common in cirrhosis due to bile salt accumulation. Emollients help hydrate and protect the skin, reducing itching. Antihistamines (A) may not be effective for pruritus in cirrhosis. High-protein diet (B) is unrelated to pruritus. Hot water baths (D) can worsen itching by drying out the skin.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a client with acute pancreatitis is maintaining NPO status and administering IV fluids (Choice C). This is because pancreatitis causes inflammation of the pancreas, leading to digestive enzyme release and auto-digestion of pancreatic tissue. By keeping the client NPO, it helps rest the pancreas and decrease enzyme secretion, which can reduce further damage. Administering IV fluids is crucial to maintain hydration and replace lost fluids due to vomiting or decreased oral intake. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they focus on dietary interventions such as oral pancreatic enzymes, high-protein, or low-fat diet, which are not appropriate as initial priorities in the acute phase of pancreatitis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Monitoring for signs of hyperkalemia. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic commonly used in clients with liver cirrhosis and ascites. The key nursing consideration is monitoring potassium levels due to the risk of hyperkalemia, as spironolactone reduces potassium excretion. Hyperkalemia can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. Checking for hypoglycemia (B) is not directly related to spironolactone use. Assessing for dehydration (C) is important but not the key consideration for this medication. Observing for hyponatremia (D) is not a common side effect of spironolactone.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Liver cirrhosis. Chronic alcohol abuse is a leading cause of liver cirrhosis due to the toxic effects of alcohol on the liver over time. Alcohol metabolism leads to liver inflammation, scarring, and ultimately cirrhosis. Renal failure (B) is not directly linked to alcohol abuse but can occur in severe cases. COPD (C) is primarily caused by smoking, not alcohol abuse. Peptic ulcer disease (D) can be exacerbated by alcohol but is not directly caused by chronic alcohol abuse. Therefore, the most significant risk for a client with a history of chronic alcohol abuse is developing liver cirrhosis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitor the client's blood pressure and heart rate. Post-paracentesis, there is a risk of hypotension due to sudden fluid shift. Monitoring BP and HR is crucial to detect and manage any hemodynamic changes promptly. Encouraging fluid intake (choice A) may exacerbate ascites. Positioning flat (choice C) may lead to hypotension. Administering furosemide (choice D) without monitoring vital signs can worsen hypotension.