Final answer:
For a patient with advanced cirrhosis and increased abdominal girth due to ascites, the recommended position is the semi-Fowler's position. This position helps with breathing and reduces abdominal pressure. Treatment options for cirrhosis include symptom management, prevention of further damage, and potentially a liver transplant.
Step-by-step explanation:
A student asked about the best position for a nurse to place a client with advanced cirrhosis who shows a significant increase in abdominal girth, suggestive of ascites. Ascites is fluid retention in the abdominal cavity, which is common with cirrhosis and can lead to discomfort and complications. The recommended position for such patients is the semi-Fowler's position. This involves the patient being in a seated position with head of the bed elevated to 30-45 degrees, which can help with breathing and decrease abdominal pressure. This position is preferred as it aids in less respiratory compromise by giving the diaphragm more space to move. In cases of advanced cirrhosis, where the liver damage is generally irreversible, treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms and preventing further complications, with a liver transplant being the only curative option when the disease reaches its end stages.