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    Ati rn adult medical surgical 2023 proctored exam

    A nurse is caring for a client who has advanced liver disease. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse monitor when assessing this client?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Rationale: A. Serum ammonia: In advanced liver disease, the liver's ability to detoxify ammonia is impaired. Ammonia can accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to hepatic encephalopathy, which can cause confusion, lethargy, or even coma. Monitoring serum ammonia levels is essential. B. Phosphate level: Phosphate levels are not a primary concern in advanced liver disease. Although abnormalities in electrolyte balance can occur, phosphate levels are not directly impacted by liver function in the same way as ammonia or other liver-related markers. C. Serum troponin: Serum troponin is primarily used to assess for myocardial injury, such as in the case of a heart attack. It is not a relevant marker for liver disease. While cardiac complications can occur in liver disease, troponin levels are not a priority. D. Glucose level: While glucose metabolism can be affected by liver disease due to impaired glycogen storage and gluconeogenesis, monitoring serum ammonia is more critical in advanced liver disease for assessing hepatic encephalopathy.

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