A nurse is caring for a client who has hepatic encephalopathy. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor?

Rationale: A. Calcium: While calcium is important for many bodily functions, it is not a primary indicator for monitoring hepatic encephalopathy. Calcium imbalances do not directly correlate with the severity or management of this condition. B. Potassium: Potassium levels are important for overall electrolyte balance, but they are not specific to hepatic encephalopathy. Monitoring potassium is part of routine care but does not indicate the progression or severity of encephalopathy. C. Ammonia: Elevated ammonia levels are a key contributor to hepatic encephalopathy. The liver normally converts ammonia to urea, and when liver function is impaired, ammonia accumulates, affecting neurological function. Monitoring ammonia helps assess severity and guide treatment interventions. D. Glucose: While glucose monitoring is important in general care, it is not specific to hepatic encephalopathy. Hyper- or hypoglycemia may occur with liver disease but does not directly reflect the presence or progression of encephalopathy.