Evolve HESI Medical Surgical Practice Exam Quizlet Related

Review Evolve HESI Medical Surgical Practice Exam Quizlet related questions and content

In a patient with liver cirrhosis, which of the following lab results would be expected?

  • A. Increased bilirubin levels.
  • B. Decreased albumin levels.
  • C. Increased liver enzymes.
  • D. Decreased platelet count.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a patient with liver cirrhosis, increased bilirubin levels would be expected. Liver cirrhosis leads to impaired liver function, causing a decrease in the liver's ability to process bilirubin, leading to its accumulation in the blood. This results in elevated bilirubin levels. Decreased albumin levels (choice B) may occur in liver cirrhosis due to impaired liver synthesis of proteins, but it is not as specific as increased bilirubin levels. Increased liver enzymes (choice C) can be seen in liver damage but are not as characteristic as elevated bilirubin levels. Decreased platelet count (choice D) can occur in liver cirrhosis due to hypersplenism, but it is not as specific as increased bilirubin levels in this context.