cirrhosis. assessment findings indicate that the client has deficient vitamin K absorption caused by this hepatic disease.. Purpura and petechiae

The nurse is caring for a male client with cirrhosis.

Which assessment findings indicate that the client has deficient vitamin K absorption caused by this hepatic disease?
a- Dyspnea and fatigue
b- Ascites and orthopnea
c- Purpura and petechiae
d- Gynecomastia and testicular atrophy

Answer C.
A hepatic disorder, such as cirrhosis, may disrupt the liver’s normal use of vitamin K to produce prothrombin (a clotting factor).

Consequently, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, including purpura and petechiae. Dyspnea and fatigue suggest anemia.

Ascites and orthopnea are unrelated to vitamin K absorption. Gynecomastia and testicular atrophy result from decreased estrogen metabolism by the diseased liver.