Question

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has cirrhosis. Which of the following laboratory plus should the nurse expect?

A. Elevated liver enzymes
B. Decreased serum bilirubin
C. Increased albumin levels
D. Normal prothrombin time

Answer 1

The anticipated laboratory result for a client with cirrhosis is elevated liver enzymes, including ALT and AST, which are indicative of liver cell damage. Additionally, serum bilirubin levels are often increased, while albumin production is decreased due to impaired liver function, leading to prolonged prothrombin time.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer regarding the expected laboratory results for a client with cirrhosis is A. Elevated liver enzymes. In the context of liver disease, such as cirrhosis, one can anticipate abnormal liver function tests (LFTs). The liver's diminished capacity to function properly results in an increase in specific enzymes and substances. Among the affected tests are elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin, with ALT and AST being critical in evaluating the extent of liver cell damage. Furthermore, total bilirubin is also increased, often indicating jaundice. As for albumin levels, these are typically decreased due to the liver's compromised ability to produce it. Lastly, prothrombin time (PT) is often prolonged, reflecting the liver's reduced ability to synthesize coagulation factors essential for blood clotting.