General Nursing©

CIRRHOSIS

The abdomen may fill up with fluid due to the backpressure at the liver; this is called ascites. Jaundice (yellowing) may result from obstruction of small ducts in the liver or replacement of the normal liver tissue by scar.

Prevention

Cirrhosis can follow other kinds of injury, such as hepatitis; but a long-term heavy alcohol intake, often accompanied by inadequate nutrition, directly causes 75 percent of the cases. If alcohol is causing liver damage, alcohol intake must be stopped entirely. In early stages, considerable recovery is possible. After heavy scarring of the liver has occurred, cirrhosis is not reversible. Since persons who have cirrhosis develop to some extent, jaundice, bleeding tendencies, edema, ascites, portal hypertention, and hepatic encephalopathy, nursing intervention for this people will combine aspects of care.

How to prevent bleeding tendencies:

• Asses for bleeding gums,purpura, melena, hematuria, and hematemesis.
• Protect the person from physical injury due to falls or abrasions.
• Use only small-gauge needles for injections. Apply prolonged gentle pressure after an injection.
• Teach individual to avoid vigorous nose blowing and straining with bowel movements.
• Advice person to use a soft toothbrush.

Goals of intervention:

1. Maximize liver function.
2. Prevent infection.
3. Control disabling symptoms.

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