CH. 47 quiz 8 disorders of liver, gall, and panc

The Liver

A vital organ that has essential functions in metabolism, detoxification, immune function, and bile production.

Structure of the Liver

Comprises four lobes, encased in connective tissue, with vascular supply from the hepatic artery (20%) and the portal vein (80%).

Glucose Metabolism

The liver regulates blood glucose levels by converting glucose to glycogen and vice versa.

Protein Metabolism

The liver synthesizes essential proteins necessary for blood clotting and other bodily functions.

Detoxification

The process by which the liver breaks down harmful substances, including drugs and alcohol.

Bile Production

The process in which the liver produces bile necessary for fat digestion and absorption.

The Gallbladder

A small, pear-shaped organ located under the liver that stores and concentrates bile.

Function of the Gallbladder

Stores and releases bile produced by the liver for digestion, particularly after fatty meals.

The Pancreas

An elongated gland behind the stomach with both endocrine and exocrine functions.

Endocrine Function of the Pancreas

Involves secretion of insulin and glucagon to regulate glucose metabolism.

Exocrine Function of the Pancreas

Involves production and release of digestive enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and proteases.

Aging Effects on Liver

Includes decrease in liver weight, blood flow, and size, with possible effects on medication metabolism.

Hepatitis A in Older Adults

Older adults are at risk of contracting hepatitis A from younger carriers, often with milder symptoms.

Gallstones

Solid particles that form in the gallbladder, with increased incidence in older adults.

Jaundice

A condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels.

Types of Jaundice

Includes hemolytic, hepatocellular, and obstructive jaundice.

Cirrhosis

A chronic liver disorder characterized by progressive degeneration and functional impairment.

Portal Hypertension

Increased pressure in the portal veins, leading to complications such as esophageal varices and ascites.

Hepatic Encephalopathy

Cognitive dysfunction due to accumulation of toxic substances in the liver.

Cholelithiasis

Formation of gallstones, risk factors include obesity and rapid weight loss.

Cholecystitis

Inflammation of the gallbladder, often secondary to cholelithiasis.

Acute Pancreatitis

Sudden inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by gallstones or alcohol.

Symptoms of Acute Pancreatitis

Includes severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated serum amylase/lipase.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Progressive inflammation of the pancreas related to long-term alcohol use.

Symptoms of Chronic Pancreatitis

Includes chronic abdominal pain, weight loss, and steatorrhea due to malabsorption.

Pancreatic Cancer

A cancer associated with high-fat diet, chronic pancreatitis, and smoking; typically presents late.

Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer

Includes imaging studies like CT scans and MRIs for detection.

Nursing Assessment

Regular monitoring of liver function tests and vital signs to detect complications.

Nutritional Support in Liver Disorders

Dietary modifications based on individual conditions, emphasizing high-calorie, high-protein diets in malnourished patients.

Patient Education for Liver Conditions

Providing knowledge about dietary management, signs of complications, and medication adherence.

Psychosocial Support

Addressing emotional needs, especially in clients with terminal liver diagnoses.

Lifestyle Changes

Critical in managing conditions like pancreatitis and cirrhosis.

Patient Support Resources

Includes support groups, nutritional counseling, and rehabilitation programs.

Complications of Cirrhosis

Includes portal hypertension, varices, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Gallbladder Function

Storage and concentration of bile until digestion is required, especially after fatty meals.

Enzymes produced by the Pancreas

Amylase (carbohydrate), lipase (fat), and proteases (protein).