The nurse is caring for a patient who has returned from a liver and spleen scan.Results of the test read, "Greater uptake of radionuclide in the spleen than in the liver." Which of the following conclusions can the nurse draw from these results?
A)The patient has a liver mass.
B)The patient has diverticulitis.
C)The patient has portal hypertension.
D)The patient has a gall stone.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The greater uptake of radionuclide in the spleen than in the liver is suggestive of portal hypertension, which is a condition where there is increased pressure in the portal vein causing backup of blood flow into the spleen. This can be caused by several conditions such as liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, or obstruction of the portal vein. Options A, B, and D are not suggested by the test results.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Has Returned