Question

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has hepatic cirrhosis. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A. Albumin 4.0 g/dL
B. INR 1.0
C. Direct bilirubin 0.5 mg/dL
D. Ammonia 180 mcg/dL

Answer 1

The nurse should report the elevated ammonia level of 180 mcg/dL to the provider as it is significantly higher than the normal range and is indicative of hepatic encephalopathy, a severe complication of liver disease.

Step-by-step explanation:

Laboratory Findings in Hepatic Cirrhosis

When reviewing the laboratory results for a client with hepatic cirrhosis, certain values are indicative of impaired liver function. In the case presented, the lab values to consider are:

• Albumin: 4.0 g/dL is within the normal range.
• INR: 1.0 implies normal blood clotting function.
• Direct bilirubin: 0.5 mg/dL is also a normal finding.
• Ammonia: 180 mcg/dL is considerably elevated and signifies impaired liver function.

The nurse should report the elevated ammonia level of 180 mcg/dL to the provider, as it is a significant deviation from the normal range and suggests hepatic encephalopathy, which is a severe complication of liver disease.