Cirrhosis

[vegas2000]

Was hoping to get some help on this question

*A client with cirrhosis is at risk for developing complications. Which condition is the most serious and potentially life-threatening?

a.Esophageal varices (this is life-threatening due to risk for aspiration from bleeding)

b.Ascites (no)

c.Peripheral edema (no)

d.Asterixis (this is also life-threatening because it is a late stage of encephalopathy)

[tnbutterfly - Mary, BSN]

I would say esophageal varices. If they rupture, it can lead to massive hemorrhage, shock, and death. Death from ruptured varices could be quicker than that caused from asterixis.

[vegas2000]

Great explanation! THANKS!!

[JROregon, ASN, BSN, RN]

Was hoping to get some help on this question

*A client with cirrhosis is at risk for developing complications. Which condition is the most serious and potentially life-threatening?

a.Esophageal varices (this is life-threatening due to risk for aspiration from bleeding)

b.Ascites (no)

c.Peripheral edema (no)

d.Asterixis (this is also life-threatening because it is a late stage of encephalopathy)

Agreed, asterixis is just a late sign. The varices, if they rupture, can cause your patient to bleed to death. Flapping hands won't hurt anybody : )

[heatherhammy]

Esophageal varices. Just lost my mom to that so know it way too well...

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

Esophageal varices. Just lost my mom to that so know it way too well...

:hug:I am so sorry for your loss.... My prayers for you and your family at this difficult time. I pray for you to find peace.:redbeathe

[tnbutterfly - Mary, BSN]

My mom had esophageal varices which ruptured and she almost bled to death. Luckily, she received emergency treatment in time. She did not even know she had cirrhosis until this happened.

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

don't over think this. asterixis is a symptom of a condition, not a condition. asterixis won't kill ya, but you can bleed to death from varices in about ten minutes. seen it.

[heelnurse]

Think about whats going to kill the patient the fastest. Asterixis is a late sign so you'll probably pick up on other things indicating encephalopathy. Esophageal Varices can kill the patient quickly if not addressed.