Liver Flashcards
(84 cards)
What does hypertension lead to?
Hypertension leads to blood seeking alternative pathways.
What are esophageal varices?
Pouches in the esophagus filled with blood due to high pressure.
What is the risk associated with esophageal varices?
High risk of hemorrhage and mortality, with a 70% chance of re-bleeding after the initial episode and a mortality rate up to 50%.
What are key assessments for esophageal varices?
Patient history of varices and monitoring for hematemesis, blood in stool, tachycardia, hypotension, continuous swallowing, and mental status changes.
What is the emergency treatment for bleeding esophageal varices?
Rapid action required to manage bleeding.
What medications are used for bleeding esophageal varices?
Beta blockers (e.g., carbetilol, propanolol), vasopressin, and Sandostatin.
What is variceal banding?
Bands placed around varices to stop bleeding.
What is sclerotherapy?
Injection of sclerosing agent at the base of varicea.
What is balloon tamponade?
Tube insertion to apply pressure and stop bleeding.
Complications include airway obstruction; intubation often required.
What nursing management should be done for patients with esophageal varices?
Avoid strain, monitor vital signs, blood volume replacement, and use NG tube carefully.
What is hepatic encephalopathy?
Increased ammonia and toxins due to liver dysfunction.
What are the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy?
Confusion, apathy, slurred speech, asterixis, and musty breath (fetor hepaticus).
What are risk factors for hepatic encephalopathy?
High protein diet, infection, GI bleeding, and certain medications.
What precautions should be taken in managing hepatic encephalopathy?
Fall and seizure precautions.
What dietary management is needed for hepatic encephalopathy?
Protein management based on ammonia levels.
What medical treatments are used for hepatic encephalopathy?
Antibiotics like metronidazole and lactulose to reduce ammonia absorption.
Monitor for diarrhea and dehydration.
What are complications of hepatic dysfunction?
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, coagulation defects, and hepatorenal syndrome.
What are key takeaways from the lecture on hypertension and liver dysfunction?
Monitoring and early intervention are crucial to manage complications, and communication and history-taking are essential in preventing complications.
What is the liver’s role as a vital organ?
The liver performs over 400 functions.
What are the consequences of liver failure?
Leads to severe sickness, cognitive issues, skin edema, and more.
What is the physical description of the liver?
Weighs approximately 3 pounds and is slightly smaller than a football.
What is the function of bile production in the liver?
Aids in digestion.
What does the liver produce for blood plasma?
Produces albumin.
Lack of albumin leads to edema and ascites.
What is one of the liver’s functions related to cholesterol?
Cholesterol production.