Final answer:
A client with hepatic cirrhosis exhibiting symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy would likely be prescribed a no protein or very low protein diet to minimize the production of ammonia from protein metabolism, which their liver cannot process effectively. so, option a is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
A client with hepatic cirrhosis who begins to exhibit symptoms such as slurred speech, confusion, drowsiness, and a flapping tremor is likely experiencing hepatic encephalopathy, a reversible neuropsychiatric abnormality associated with liver failure. The condition is linked with a diminished capacity of the liver to metabolize proteins, specifically ammonia, into less harmful substances. As a result, the nurse would anticipate a prescribed diet that is low in protein to reduce the production of ammonia and other nitrogenous wastes that the liver cannot adequately process. Although not explicitly mentioned, the correct answer in this case would likely be a. No protein or a very low protein diet, which would later be adjusted depending on the patient's tolerance and nutritional needs, possibly shifting to a moderate protein diet over time.
Malnutrition and hypoalbuminemia (decreased albumin levels) are common in patients with liver cirrhosis, and they may require nutritional support. In individuals with hepatic encephalopathy, dietary adjustments are key to management, aiming to provide sufficient energy and nutrients while preventing worsening of symptoms due to the accumulation of toxic substances from protein metabolism.