Final answer:
Ascites in the context of liver failure, particularly due to cirrhosis, is driven by hypervolemia and reduced albumin production. Treatment options include the use of diuretics, paracentesis, and potentially a liver transplant, while managing the condition involves monitoring by nursing staff, dietary restrictions, and careful management of protein intake.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the Context of Liver Failure, What Causes Ascites?
Ascites is caused by a combination of factors that often accompany chronic liver failure, such as cirrhosis. These include hypervolemia, where there is an excessive fluid volume due to the retention of water and sodium. This can be exacerbated by conditions like heart failure, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, hyperaldosteronism, and certain steroid treatments. Specifically, in liver cirrhosis, there's a reduced production of proteins like albumin, leading to a decreased oncotic pressure, which in turn contributes to fluid leaking into the abdominal cavity, resulting in ascites.
Medical Treatment
Medical treatment for ascites due to liver failure may include diuretics to reduce fluid overload and paracentesis to remove excess fluid directly from the abdomen. In advanced stages, a liver transplant may be the only option.
Nursing Treatment
Nursing treatments focus on monitoring the patient's vitals, managing symptoms, and aiding in fluid balance.
Dietary restrictions typically involve a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention.
A balanced approach to protein intake is crucial, as too much can worsen hepatic encephalopathy, but too little can lead to malnutrition.