A patient is admitted after complaints consistent with hepatitis A. The patient's blood tests confirm this diagnosis. The nurse should expect to observe which symptoms?
Explanation
• Hepatitis A is highly contagious and contracted from contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person. It is most common in undeveloped countries. Hepatitis A causes liver damage, but most people recover completely. Mild cases often require no treatment
• Classic signs and symptoms of hepatitis A are anorexia, weakness, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Other symptoms can also include right upper quadrant (RUQ) abdominal pain, clay-colored bowel movements, dark/brown urine, low-grade fever, or jaundice
• Pain radiating to the shoulder and constipation are not associated with hepatitis A