A patient with cirrhosis is experiencing hypertension, edema, and shortness of breath. What should the nurse identify as the patient's priority problem?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of hypertension, edema, and shortness of breath in a patient with cirrhosis suggest fluid overload, indicating that the patient has too much bodily fluid. This condition is common in cirrhosis due to the liver's inability to synthesize albumin, leading to decreased oncotic pressure and fluid accumulation in the body.

A Patient with Cirrhosis Is Experiencing Hypertension, Edema, and Shortness