The nurse is assessing a patient with advanced cirrhosis. The nurse should be alert for which sign of hepatic deterioration?

Explanation

• This scenario describes hepatic encephalopathy. This causes central nervous system toxicity, leading to altered level of consciousness, confusion, and coma.

• Weight gain may also be seen due to third spacing, associated with lower albumin levels secondary to liver damage.

• Weight loss and anorexia occur earlier in the disease process.

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