A client is admitted into the emergency room with hematemesis; dark urine; and black, tarry feces. On examination, the nurse finds that the client has weight loss and a distended abdomen. Which condition does the nurse suspect in the client?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described, including hematemesis (vomiting blood), dark urine, black, tarry feces (indicative of gastrointestinal bleeding), weight loss, and a distended abdomen, are consistent with esophageal varices. Esophageal varices are dilated submucosal veins in the lower esophagus, often secondary to portal hypertension, which can lead to life-threatening bleeding.

A Client Is Admitted into the Emergency Room with Hematemesis;