Acute liver failure and encephalopathy
NCLEX-RN glossary · Physiological Adaptation
Definition
Severe hepatic impairment leading to coagulopathy and ammonia-induced brain dysfunction, transitioning from asterixis to coma.
Acute liver failure and encephalopathy in plain English
Priority focus is airway protection (aspiration risk) and the administration of Lactulose to reduce serum ammonia levels. The tempting mistake is focusing on skin jaundice or pruritus when the client is exhibiting high-priority neurological cues for increased intracranial pressure.
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