Hepatic Flashcards
What are the metabolic functions of the liver?
- Glucose metabolism
- Ammonia conversion
- Protein metabolism
- Fat metabolism
- Vitamin and iron storage
- Bile formation
- Bilirubin excretion
- Drug metabolism
These functions are essential for maintaining overall body metabolism and homeostasis.
What are common clinical manifestations of hepatic disorders?
- Jaundice
- Portal hypertension
- Ascites
- Varices
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Hepatic encephalopathy or coma
These manifestations indicate significant liver dysfunction and require careful assessment.
What is the significance of bilirubin levels exceeding 2 mg/dL?
It indicates jaundice, characterized by yellow- or greenish-yellow sclera and skin due to increased serum bilirubin levels.
Jaundice can be classified into hemolytic, hepatocellular, and obstructive types.
What are the types of hepatitis and their routes of transmission?
- Hepatitis A: fecal–oral route
- Hepatitis B: bloodborne, sexual contact
- Hepatitis C: bloodborne, sexual contact
- Hepatitis D: only in those with Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis E: fecal–oral route
Hepatitis G and GB virus-C are also noted but less commonly discussed.
What are the key components of a liver function study?
- Serum aminotransferases (AST, ALT, GGT)
- Serum protein studies
- Direct and indirect serum bilirubin
- Urine bilirubin and urobilinogen
- Clotting factors
These tests help assess liver cell injury and function.
True or False: Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is specific to liver diseases.
False
AST may be increased in various conditions, not just liver diseases.
What dietary recommendation is made for patients with ascites?
Low-sodium diet (<2g or <500mg in extreme cases)
This helps reduce fluid retention associated with portal hypertension.
What is the primary treatment for hepatic encephalopathy?
Lactulose to reduce serum ammonia levels
Other treatments include managing electrolyte imbalances and protein restriction.
What are signs and symptoms associated with hepatocellular jaundice?
- Mild or severely ill
- Lack of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weight loss
- Malaise, fatigue, weakness
- Headache, chills, fever
These symptoms indicate liver dysfunction and require further evaluation.
What assessment techniques are used in patients with liver alterations?
- Health history
- Physical assessment
- Skin examination
- Cognitive status evaluation
- Palpation and percussion
These assessments help in identifying liver dysfunction and its complications.
Fill in the blank: The largest gland of the body is the _______.
[liver]
The liver plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes.
What are the complications associated with portal hypertension?
- Ascites
- Esophageal varices
Increased pressure in the portal venous system can lead to significant morbidity.
What is the primary goal of nursing management for patients with ascites?
Assess the progression and/or response to treatment
This includes monitoring intake and output, abdominal girth, daily weight, and lab values.
What is the mortality rate of the first bleeding episode in patients with esophageal varices?
10% to 30% depending on severity
This highlights the critical nature of managing varices in cirrhosis patients.
What are the manifestations of Hepatitis A?
- Mild flu-like symptoms
- Low-grade fever
- Anorexia
- Jaundice
- Dark urine
- Indigestion
- Enlargement of liver and spleen
These symptoms can appear after an incubation period of 2 to 6 weeks.
What is the incubation period for Hepatitis B?
1 to 6 months
Symptoms may be insidious and variable.
What are the nursing management strategies for patients with hepatic encephalopathy?
- Maintain safe environment
- Administer prescribed treatments
- Monitor neuro status
- Monitor vital signs
- Educate family about treatments
This is crucial to prevent injury and manage symptoms effectively.
What are the common causes of hepatic dysfunction?
- Alcohol use
- Infection
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
- Cirrhosis
Identifying the cause is essential for appropriate management.
What is the incubation period for Hepatitis C?
Ranging from 15 to 160 days
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis C?
Usually mild
What is a common outcome for individuals with Hepatitis C?
Chronic carrier state frequently occurs
What type of medications are used in the management of Hepatitis C?
Antiviral medications
What should be avoided in the management of Hepatitis C?
Medications that affect the liver
What public health programs are recommended for preventing Hepatitis C?
Programs to decrease needle sharing among drug users
What is the primary risk factor for Hepatitis D?
Only persons with hepatitis B are at risk
How is Hepatitis D transmitted?
Blood and sexual contact transmission
What is the incubation period for Hepatitis D?
Between 30 and 150 days
What is the only licensed drug available for the treatment of HDV infection?
Interferon alfa
How is the management of patients with Hepatitis D similar to?
Management of Hepatitis B
What is the primary mode of transmission for Hepatitis E?
Fecal–oral route, contaminated water
What is the incubation period for Hepatitis E?
15 to 65 days
How does Hepatitis E typically present?
Self-limiting, abrupt onset, not chronic
What is a key prevention method for Hepatitis E?
Good hygiene, handwashing
What are the risk factors for Hepatitis G?
Similar to those for Hepatitis C
What is the incubation period for Hepatitis G after blood transfusion?
14-145 days
What are the two variations of Hepatitis G Virus (HGV)?
Hepatitis G Virus and Hepatitis GB-C Virus
What is a common type of nonviral hepatitis?
Toxic hepatitis
What are the types of hepatic cirrhosis?
- Alcoholic
- Post-necrotic
- Biliary
What are common manifestations of hepatic cirrhosis?
- Liver enlargement
- Portal obstruction
- Ascites
- Infection and peritonitis
- Varices
- Edema
- Vitamin deficiency
- Anemia
- Mental deterioration
What characterizes compensated hepatic cirrhosis?
Less severe, often vague symptoms
What are the manifestations of decompensated hepatic cirrhosis?
- Portal hypertension
- Ascites
- Varices
- Hepatic encephalopathy
What are nursing interventions directed toward for patients with cirrhosis?
- Promoting rest
- Improving nutritional status
- Providing skin care
- Reducing risk of injury
- Monitoring and managing potential complications
What dietary recommendations are made for patients with cirrhosis?
- Encourage small frequent meals
- High-calorie diet
- Sodium restriction
- Protein modified or restricted if at risk for encephalopathy
What is a common complication of cirrhosis?
- Bleeding and hemorrhage
- Hepatic encephalopathy
- Fluid volume excess
What are the main manifestations of primary liver tumors?
- Dull persistent pain
- Weight loss
- Anemia
- Anorexia
- Weakness
- Jaundice
- Ascites
What is the treatment of choice for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) if confined to one lobe?
Surgery
What types of surgery are available for liver cancer?
- Lobectomy
- Cryosurgery
- Liver transplant
What are the preoperative nursing interventions for liver transplantation?
- Support
- Education
- Encouragement
What vitamin deficiencies are common in hepatic dysfunction?
- Vitamin A
- B-complex
- C
- K
- Folic acid
