A nurse is reviewing laboratory findings for three clients.Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse expect for a client who has cirrhosis?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale:Elevated amylase is not typically associated with cirrhosis. Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary glands, and elevated levels are more commonly associated with pancreatic disorders or acute pancreatitis.Choice B rationale:Decreased bilirubin is not an expected laboratory finding in cirrhosis. Cirrhosis often leads to impaired liver function, which can result in elevated bilirubin levels, causing jaundice.Choice C rationale:Elevated lipase is not a characteristic laboratory finding in cirrhosis. Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas, and elevated levels are more often seen in pancreatic disorders or acute pancreatitis.Choice D rationale:The correct choice is D. Elevated ammonia levels are commonly associated with cirrhosis. In cirrhosis, the damaged liver is unable to effectively metabolize ammonia, leading to its accumulation in the blood. Elevated ammonia levels can result in hepatic encephalopathy, a neurological complication often seen in cirrhotic patients.