When caring for a client with hepatic encephalopathy, why is a low-protein diet recommended by the nurse?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Increased ammonia levels. In hepatic encephalopathy, the liver is unable to metabolize ammonia into urea, leading to increased ammonia levels in the blood. A low-protein diet helps reduce ammonia production in the gut, thereby decreasing ammonia levels in the blood and improving symptoms. Hyperglycemia (A) and hypoglycemia (B) are not directly related to the rationale for a low-protein diet in hepatic encephalopathy. Electrolyte imbalance (D) is not specifically addressed by a low-protein diet in this context.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Prothrombin time (PT). In cirrhosis, the liver's ability to produce clotting factors is impaired, leading to a higher risk of bleeding. Monitoring PT helps assess the liver's synthetic function and the blood's ability to clot. Abnormal PT values indicate a higher bleeding risk and guide interventions like vitamin K or blood products. Blood glucose (A), serum creatinine (B), and electrolytes (D) do not directly reflect the liver's synthetic function or clotting status in cirrhosis, making them less relevant for monitoring bleeding risk.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To relieve abdominal pressure. Paracentesis is performed to drain excess fluid from the abdominal cavity, which helps alleviate symptoms like abdominal distension and discomfort in clients with ascites. It does not serve the purpose of diagnosing liver disease (A), assessing kidney function (C), or reducing blood pressure (D). The primary goal of paracentesis in this context is to provide symptomatic relief by removing the accumulated fluid, thereby reducing pressure on surrounding organs and improving the client's comfort and overall well-being.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "I can take acetaminophen for pain." Acetaminophen can be harmful to the liver, especially in individuals with liver cirrhosis. The liver is responsible for metabolizing acetaminophen, and in cirrhosis, its function is impaired, leading to potential toxicity. Choice A is correct as alcohol can worsen liver damage. Choice B is correct as excess salt can lead to fluid retention and complications. Choice D is correct as a balanced diet is important for overall health. Therefore, the statement about taking acetaminophen indicates a need for further teaching.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: Lactulose is prescribed for liver cirrhosis to reduce ammonia levels. It works by promoting the excretion of ammonia in the stool, preventing its accumulation in the bloodstream. This helps prevent hepatic encephalopathy, a serious complication of cirrhosis. Other choices are incorrect because lactulose does not directly affect blood sugar levels, liver inflammation, or bile flow in the context of liver cirrhosis.