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Pancreatitis - ✔✔Acute inflammation process of the pancreas, degree of inflammation
varies from mild edema to severe necrosis. Most common in biliary tract disease and
alcoholism, but can be caused by trauma, viral infections, penetrating duodenal ulcer, cysts,
idiopathic, abscesses, cystic fibrosis, Kaposi's sarcoma, metabolic disorder, vascular
diseases, postop GI surgery, drugs
Jaundice - ✔✔..., Abnormal yellowish discoloration of the sclerae of the eyes, skin, and
mucous membranes due to excess billirubin in blood
Liver diagnostic tests - ✔✔Ultrasound, CT, MRI, Biopsy
Biggest risk after liver biopsy - ✔✔Bleeding.
NI's for post biopsy bleedding:
-position pt on biopsy side (R) to use body weight to apply pressure
ascites - ✔✔Excess fluid in the peritoneal cavity that results from venous congestion of the
hepatic capillaries, which leads to plasma leaking directly into the peritoneal cavity from the
liver surface and portal vein.
Portal hypertension - ✔✔increased pressure of the portal blood flow through the liver and
back up to the aorta, veins may appear engorged.
Complications from portal hypertension - ✔✔hemorrhoids and esophageal varices.
Esophageal varices - ✔✔tortuous esophageal veins that can burst, can cause fast bleed out
and aspirations
Difference between spironolactone and lasix - ✔✔Lasix is not potassium sparring.
Spironolactone is potassium sparring.
, Paracentesis - ✔✔Removal of fluid from the peritoneal cavity. Fluid may be r/t ascites.
Splenomegaly - ✔✔englarged spleen
Manifestations of liver dysfunction - ✔✔edema/bleeding
vitamin deficiency
endocrine
skin
fluid
splenomegaly
Causes of Cirrhosis - ✔✔Hepatitis
Alcohol abuse
Drugs
Medications
Hepatic encephalopathy - ✔✔altered consciousness, mentation, and motor function
affecting cirrhotic patients. Pt's can exhibit "liver flap" of the arms and hands. Treat by
trying to reduce the amonia in the bloodstream and fluids.
Medications for hepatic encephalopathy - ✔✔Miralax> helps reduce ammonia.
What risk do we need to consider for all pt's with a reduced liver function? - ✔✔possibility
of prolonged bleeding time, bleeding risk
What kind of checks for pt with hepatic encephalopathy? - ✔✔Frequent neuro checks
Intake and output
Vital signs
Safety:sitter, padding, fall risk, altered mentation
"Liver palms"