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Cirrhosis — NCLEX Cheat Sheet
Scarred liver → portal HTN
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Use this quick-reference guide to spot, treat, and prevent Cirrhosis on the NCLEX. Keep it handy during review and on exam day!
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Causes
Why it happens- Alcohol, hepatitis C, NAFLD
- Fibrosis → ↓ liver function
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Signs
What to look for- Jaundice, ascites, edema
- Spider angiomas, palmar erythema
- Caput medusae, varices, bruising
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Labs
Key numbers- ↑ bilirubin, ↑ AST/ALT, ↑ ammonia
- ↓ albumin, ↑ PT/INR, ↓ platelets
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Do
Nursing actions- Low Na, fluid restrict, diuretics
- Bleeding precautions, daily weight
- Measure abd girth, no alcohol
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Quick Tip
Portal hypertension causes ascites, esophageal varices, splenomegaly, and caput medusae (distended abdominal veins).
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