Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has hepatic encephalopathy. The client asks the nurse if she can have a larger portion of beef for dinner. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?

a. "Beef is too high in fat, but can i request chicken as a substitute."
b. "You need to increase your fluid intake. Would you like beef and noodle soup?"
c. "You should limit your animal protein intake. Can I get you a veggie burger instead?"
d. "You need to limit calories. Would you like some sugar-free gelatin?"

Answer 1

The correct response is option C, as it addresses the need to minimize animal protein intake in a patient with hepatic encephalopathy by suggesting a veggie burger instead of beef.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition that can occur in persons with significant liver dysfunction. This condition affects the brain, causing neuropsychiatric abnormalities due to the liver's inability to properly detoxify the body. In such cases, a diet low in animal protein might be recommended because the liver can struggle to process the ammonia produced from digesting animal proteins, which can exacerbate symptoms.

Given this information, the most appropriate response to the client's request would be option C, which suggests a substitute for beef that is lower in animal protein. The nurse is correct to discourage the consumption of beef since it is high in animal protein that might be difficult for a person with liver failure to process. Instead, the nurse suggests a veggie burger, which likely contains a lower amount of protein that would be easier on the liver.

It is not particularly relevant in this context to discuss fat content, calorie intake, or fluid intake without knowledge of the complete dietary plan recommended by a physician or dietician for this patient. The primary concern is reducing the intake of animal proteins to lessen the production of ammonia, thereby minimizing the effects of hepatic encephalopathy.