Which assessment finding is the most significant to report to the physician for a child with cirrhosis?
A) Weight loss
B) Change in level of consciousness
C) Skin with pruritus
D) Black, foul-smelling stools

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The child with cirrhosis must be assessed for encephalopathy,which is characterized by a change in level of consciousness.Encephalopathy can result from a buildup of ammonia in the blood from the incomplete breakdown of protein.One complication of cirrhosis is ascites.The child needs to be assessed for increasing abdominal girth and edema.A child who is retaining fluid will not exhibit weight loss.Biliary obstruction can lead to pruritus,which is a frequent finding.An alteration in the level of consciousness is of higher priority.Black,tarry stools may indicate blood in the stool.This needs be reported to the physician.This is not a higher priority than a change in level of consciousness.

Which Assessment Finding Is the Most Significant to Report to the Physician