ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1 Related

Review ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1 related questions and content

What causes hepatic encephalopathy?

  • A. Buildup of ammonia in the body
  • B. Buildup of urea in the body
  • C. Fatty infiltration of the liver
  • D. Jaundice
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hepatic encephalopathy is caused by the buildup of ammonia in the body. Ammonia, a byproduct of protein metabolism, normally gets converted to urea in the liver for excretion. However, in liver dysfunction, such as cirrhosis, the liver cannot effectively convert ammonia to urea, leading to its accumulation in the body and subsequently causing hepatic encephalopathy. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy.