Final answer:
The client developing symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy due to hepatic cirrhosis is likely to be prescribed a moderate protein diet, to manage the production of toxins like ammonia while avoiding complications from protein deficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The client with hepatic cirrhosis experiencing slurred speech, confusion, drowsiness, and a flapping tremor is likely developing hepatic encephalopathy, a condition associated with liver failure. This disorder can result in an accumulation of toxins like ammonia in the blood, which are normally metabolized by the liver. Considering the client's symptoms, a diet designed to minimize the production and absorption of ammonia is often recommended.
The expected dietary prescription for this client is a moderate protein diet. A no-protein diet could exacerbate protein deficiency issues, such as indigestion, malabsorption, and chronic diarrhea, while contributing to decreased synthesis of plasma albumin and subsequent edema. On the other hand, a high-protein diet could increase ammonia production and worsen hepatic encephalopathy. Therefore, protein intake is usually restricted to a level that meets the body's needs without overloading the compromised liver function, which is typically achieved through a moderate protein diet.