A 62-year-old with hepatitis C cirrhosis develops progressiv…
A 62-year-old with hepatitis C cirrhosis develops progressive sleep–wake reversal and difficulty concentrating after missing several doses of lactulose. Exam: disoriented to date, mild icterus, flapping tremor. Vitals: BP 114/70, HR 90, RR 18, SpO₂ 98% RA. Morning labs: serum ammonia 98 µmol/L (elevated), total bilirubin 3.9 mg/dL, albumin 2.8 g/dL, sodium 131 mEq/L, glucose 118 mg/dL. Which abnormality most directly accounts for the current neurologic findings?
Read DetailsA 56-year-old male with a history of cirrhosis presents to t…
A 56-year-old male with a history of cirrhosis presents to the emergency department with confusion, jaundice, and abdominal swelling. The client receives lactulose and diuretics. Which findings would NOT be expected if hepatic encephalopathy and decompensation were ongoing? Select all that apply.
Read DetailsA 26-year-old with systemic lupus erythematosus reports 2 we…
A 26-year-old with systemic lupus erythematosus reports 2 weeks of worsening fatigue, morning joint stiffness, and new swelling in both ankles and around the eyes. She notes her urine has looked “foamy.” Vitals: BP 152/92, HR 96, RR 18, afebrile. Which potential complication is the nurse most concerned about?
Read DetailsA 55-year-old patient in urgent care reports 2 days of progr…
A 55-year-old patient in urgent care reports 2 days of progressive abdominal pain and anorexia. Vitals: T 38.0°C (100.4°F), HR 96, BP 132/76, RR 16. Labs: WBC 13,200/µL. The patient denies vomiting. Which assessment finding would the nurse expect with uncomplicated diverticulitis? Which assessment finding is most consistent with this diagnosis?
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