A patient with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy becomes increasingly sleepy. The blood glucose level is 42 mg/dL. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct answer: A. Treat the hypoglycaemia according to protocol
- A. Treat the hypoglycaemia according to protocol
- B. Restrict all oral and intravenous fluids
- C. Administer a sedative for agitation
- D. Place the patient in a dark room only
Explanation
Severe hypoglycaemia can directly cause altered consciousness and is an immediate reversible threat to the brain. It must be treated promptly rather than attributing the change automatically to hepatic encephalopathy.
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About Gastrointestinal and Liver Nursing
Covers nursing care for peptic ulcer disease, gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal obstruction, hepatitis, cirrhosis and portal hypertension. It includes nutrition, fluid and electrolyte management, abdominal assessment, gastrointestinal bleeding, ascites and hepatic encephalopathy, which must be distinguished from other causes of altered consciousness.
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