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 for a client with hepatic cirrhosis. Monitoring and managing ammonia levels is important to prevent complications in these patients.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should report the laboratory finding of ammonia level of 180 mcg/dL to the provider for a client with hepatic cirrhosis. Elevated ammonia levels indicate liver dysfunction, which can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, a serious complication. It is important to monitor and manage ammonia levels to prevent worsening of symptoms and potential neurological damage in these patients.

The other lab results mentioned in the question, such as albumin level of 4.0 g/dL, INR level of 1.0, and direct bilirubin level of 0.5 mg/dL, are within normal ranges and do not require immediate reporting. These findings may still be relevant for assessing the overall liver function, but they do not indicate an immediate concern.