Question

The nurse is caring for a client with biliary cancer. the associated jaundice gets progressively worse. the nurse is most concerned about the potential complication of what symptom?

Answer 1

Liver failure or cirrhosis

Answer 2

Answer:

Bleeding

Explanation:

• In the case of biliary cancer, the progressive worsening of the associated jaundice is due to the obstruction of the bile flow.
• The obstruction of the bile flow further is responsible for the impairment of the absorption of vitamin K, which is a fat-soluble vitamin.
• Impairment in the absorption of Vitamin k leads to a decrease in the production of prothrombin as it is required for its synthesis. 
• Due to a decrease in prothrombin, there is a further increase in the coagulation time and thus the chances of bleeding increases.