A patient with portal hypertension and hepatic encephalopathy is surprised that he is permitted to eat meat for dinner. What should the nurse explain to the patient about protein intake?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

1. The patient does not have an alteration in the metabolism of protein.
2. Patients with HE should be managed with medications and should not have a protein restriction. They actually have an increased need for protein, and limiting it will accelerate PCM.
3. Protein will prevent the development of complications and not necessarily directly impact liver healing.
4. Ingesting protein does not prevent fluid from leaking into the abdomen.

A Patient with Portal Hypertension and Hepatic Encephalopathy Is Surprised