Documenti di Didattica
Documenti di Professioni
Documenti di Cultura
KATE B. SMITH
AULYN B. TANACIO
ROSANA L. TIANZA
ABELYN C. TIO-TIO
KENDRA B. TIWAKEN
SHARALINA C. WALISEN
LA TRINIDAD, BENGUET
MARCH 2019
ABSTRACT
Authors: Nicoleen Mae D. Sibayan, Kate B. Smith, Aulyn B. Tanacio, Hannah Lhyne O. Tayab, Rosana L.
Tianza, Abelyn C. Tio-tio, Kendra B. Tiwaken, Jazzyl Keth S. Tongab, Krista Dee D. Wagawag, Sharalina C.
Walisen, BSN IV
Overview of the Case: Patient Bvm’s condition started two years ago, when patient underwent repair of
inguinal hernia and angiography due to infection with emergency evacuation of scrotal hemorrhage few
days after first surgery. Since then, patient noticed increasing abdominal girth with associated oliguria
and urinary frequency. Six months prior to admission, patient’s symptoms persisted that urged him to
seek consultation at the Out Patient Department (OPD). Parenthesis was done to decrease fluid
accumulation in the abdominal area that provided a temporary relief. One week prior to admission,
complaints of haemorrhage in scrotal area then sought consultation in our institution and testing was
done. However sudden movement of the patient increased bleeding and stitching was done. This
prompted patient to seek consultation for further evaluation and management.
Abridged Drug Study: Treatment was given such as Lactulose to treat constipation and help to eliminate
ammonia in the blood via the stools to prevent hepatic coma encephalopathy. Tramadol is given also to
manage the client complaint of severe pain. Spironolactone is given to the client mainly because of
edema due to liver cirrhosis and also this is given to the client of high blood pressure this was prescribed
because it is potassium sparing diuretic; this drug can decrease blood pressure at the same time it can
prevent the eliminating of potassium.Laboratory test such as Complete blood count (CBC) may be
ordered to evaluate a patient’s red and white blood cells and platelets; anemia may be present if
bleeding has occurred, and platelets are often decreased with cirrhosis. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
is an enzyme found mainly in the liver. Values are increased with all types of liver injury, including
cirrhosis. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found along bile ducts. ALP is usually normal or mildly
elevated in cirrhosis.
Course in the by Ward: January 27, 2019: Patient is a known case of massive ascites secondary to
decompensated liver disease, HCVD in HCIIC, accompanied by his son. The patient was admitted
because of persistent increase of abdominal girth associated with oliguria and urinary frequency. After
admission, patient claims to experienced further increase in abdominal girth, severe pain, and unstable
blood pressure. Patient was showed some signs and symptoms of weakness, cold and clammy
extremities.
In the case of patient BVM with liver disease, development of ascites is an important landmark in the
natural history of cirrhosis. Adequate management of ascites is important, not only because it improves
quality of life in patients with cirrhosis, but also prevents serious complication such as SBP. However,
treatment of ascites does not significantly improve survival. Therefore, development of ascites should
be considered as an indication for transplantation. Liver transplantation is the ultimate treatment of
ascites and its complications.
Recommendations: The researchers recommend that the healthcare provider (HCP) be aware and
inform that liver disease is the leading cause of ascites. However, many serious conditions can lead to
the build-up of fluids in the abdomen. It is highly recommended to the patient to follow the discharge
plan given such as promote healthy diet especially sodium restrictions. Although dietary sodium should
be restricted to levels lower than urinary sodium excretion, sodium restriction to 2 g per day is realistic
goal particularly in an outpatient setting. Take diuretics as recommended by doctors. Patient should
limit the use of all medications including over-the-counter drugs, unless recommended by the doctors.
Bed rest is recommended for patients with ascites on the basis that upright posture increases
aldosterone levels, which is associated with sodium retention.
Title Page . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Abstract . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . 4
Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . 5
General Profile . . . . . . . . . . . 6
A. Chief Complaint . . . . . . . . . 6
B. Admitting Diagnosis . . . . . . . . 6
C. History of Present Illness . . . . . . . . 7
D. Past Medical History . . . . . . . . 7
E. Social and Environmental History . . . . . . . 7
F. Family History (Genogram) . . . . . . . . 8
Physical Examination . . . . . . . . . . 9
Pathophysiology . . . . . . . . . 30
Treatment. . . . . . . . . . . . 33-39
References . . . . . . . . . . . 46
We, the Group U Level IV nurse learners, would like to express our gratitude to all the people who, read
and offered comments and remarks in editing this case study especially Ma’am Doris Natividad.
This case study wouldn’t be possible without the aid of the following:
To Sir Gerard Rebolledo who guided us during our clinical duty and selecting a patient for our case
study.
To our parents and guardians who have always been supportive all throughout the start of the
duty until the end.
Lastly, to God, for giving us the strength and wisdom in realizing and fulfilling our duties in the
clinical area.
A. Personal Profile:
Name: Bvm
Age: 48
Sex: Male
Occupation: Laborer
Nationality: Filipino
A. Chief Complaint
Patient Bvm, a 48-year-old male, was accompanied by his mother for his medical check-
up due to abdominal pain on January 17, 2019.
B. Admitting Diagnosis
60 76
Heart Attack Hypertension
53 51 50
Hypertension Alive & Alive &
Well Well
LEGEND:
- Male - Deceased
- Female - Deceased
- Patient
Patient Bvm is the last child among the four siblings and according to him. They have no history
of DM or cancer but his mother is hypertensive. He also mentioned that his father died of heart attack
at the age of 60. He is not aware of any food and medicine allergies. His older brother is also
hypertensive. Patient Bvm is currently admitted at the hospital.
HEAD
HAIR:
Distribution: Loosely distributed Color: Black Quantity: Hair is growing and thin
Infestations: None
SCALP:
FACE:
EYES:
SCLERA:
Color: Yellowish
CONJUNCTIVA:
Palpebral: Pale Bulbar: White
IRIS:
VISUAL ACUITY:
EYEBROWS:
EYELASHES:
EYELIDS:
Color: Brown
NOSE:
MOUTH:
Decay: None
NECK:
Symmetry Symmetrical
Pain/tenderness: Abdomen
Lesions: None
Aortic: 2nd intercostal space just right of the Erb’s: Heard on the 3rd intercostal space left
sternum sternal border
Tricuspid: 4th intercostal space left lower sternal Mitral: 5th intercostal space left mid clavicular
border line
S1: Heard over the apex using the JVD measurement: None
stethoscope’s diaphragm at the beginning of
systolic
INSPECTION:
AUSCULTATION
PALPATION:
Special procedures:
Muscles Muscle tone: 0 (Modified Ashworth Muscle strengths: Muscle grade of 5/5
Scale)
Reflexes: +2 Shoulders: +1
Vibration: Normal
Nails:
Color: Pale Shape: Round Texture: Firm
Muscles Muscle tone: 0 Modified Ashworth Muscle strengths: Muscle grade of 5/5
Scale)
Reflexes: +2
Joints Left ROM: Able to flex ( but not fully flexed) Dorsalispedis: +1
Inflammation: None
Sensation:
Vibration: Normal
Infestations: None
Surgeries: None
Fixtures: None
Edema: None
JVD: None
PERIPHERAL VASCULAR Leg or feet pain: None Swelling of legs or feet: None
Appetite: Decreased
Oliguria: Positive
Ileostomy: None
NEUROLOGICAL Stiffness: None Strength: Upper Extremity- Left: 5/5 Right: 5/5
Crutches: NA
Walker: NA
Wheelchair: NA
EXERCISE Jogging: None Walking: None Gym: None Others: Range of motion exercises
HABITS
SLEEP AND Times asleep: 9PM Time awake: 6AM Sleep problems: None
REST
HEALTH PERCEPTION AND HEALTH Prior to admission he admits that he occasionally drinks liquor
MANAGEMENT and used to be a smoker and can smoke 1 pack of cigarette a
week.
NUTRITION AND METABOLISM Prior to admission his body build is appropriate for age. He
eats nutritious and protein rich foods. He eats without any
problem but has watery defecation. He eats his meal three
times a day and drinks 5-6 glasses of water per day. He stated
that his meal mostly consist of meat products and vegetables.
He stated that his urine is less than the amount of water he
drink.
ACTIVITY AND EXERCISE Prior to admission His leisure activity is watching television. He
does not exercise because he considers physical activity such
as carrying heavy loads as a form of exercise.
SLEEP AND REST He sleeps 9 in the evening, and wakes up at 6 in the morning.
He wakes up feeling well and rested. When he was admitted in
the hospital, he claimed that there are interruptions in his
sleep because of the noise from other patient or watcher. He
also stated that he is not able to rest because of the
uncomfortable environment.
SELF-PERCEPTION AND SELF- He was compliant to what the doctors and nurses say because
CONCEPT he believes that it can help him recover. He always uses his
blanket to warm his body. He claims that he feels good about
himself but sometimes he loses hope because of his condition.
ROLES AND RELATIONSHIPS He lives with his family and he is close to his children. In the
past he works industriously to support his family needs but
cannot do it nowadays due to his condition. Sometimes he
wants to go home and do things to help his family. He is well
supported and loved by her family. He considers his family as
his life and his motivation to live. Also claims that he values
efforts coming from them.
SEXUALITY AND REPRODUCTION He claims that his sexual functioning changed ever since he had
ascites.
COPING AND STRESS TOLERANCE The most helpful person in his life when problems occur is his
family. He stated that seeing his children happy is enough to
forget his problem.
VALUES AND BELIEFS He is Roman Catholic and religion is important to his family. He
has so many plans for the future especially for his children. He
wants to get well soon for his family.
This section of the study focuses on the diagnostic and laboratory tests ordered by the
physician, vital to the process of understanding and management of the condition of the patient.
Complete blood count (CBC) was ordered to the patient evaluate a patient’s red and white blood
cells and platelets. In cases of liver cirrhosis, platelet count often decreases. Meanwhile, result of the test
shows that Neutrophils are high while Lymphocytes are low. This indicates that there is weakening of
immune system and presence of bacterial infection.
Blood Urea
Nitrogen:22.89 Blood Urea
Nitrogen:2.8-
Albumin: 39.13 7.2mmol/L
Albumin:35-52g/L
The result shows a high BUN level that is probably caused by low blood flow to the kidneys caused
by heart failure. Persistent high BUN level is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality.
Normalization of BUN during hospitalization may improve long-term clinical outcomes. Albumin is a
protein made by the liver that is often decreased in cirrhosis.
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver. Values are increased with
all types of liver injury, including cirrhosis.Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found along bile ducts.
ALP is usually normal or mildly elevated in cirrhosis. Total bilirubin is a substance produced exclusively in
the liver. It is increased with many liver diseases. Bilirubin is usually normal or slightly elevated until
cirrhosis becomes far advanced.
Table 1.4Serology:Anti-HCV,HBsAg,Anti-HBeSAg
A "positive" or "reactive" HBsAg test result means that the person is infected with hepatitis B. This
test can detect the actual presence of the hepatitis B virus (called the “surface antigen”) in your
blood. Hepatitis B and hepatitis C testing may be ordered to help diagnose the underlying cause of chronic
liver disease.
A non-reactive" anti-HBs (or HBsAb) test result indicates that our patient is not protected against
the hepatitis B virus. This is done to patients as a confirmatory test to suspected Hapatitis B cases.
Culture of the ascitic fluid for bacteria should be obtained routinely in patients with cirrhotic
ascites, in whom spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) can occur. Gram staining is useful in detecting
secondary peritonitis due to gut perforation but is only about 10 percent sensitive in detecting bacteria
early in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP).
Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) in ascitic fluid by either acid-fast bacillus (AFB)
staining or culturing can confirm diagnosis of TB ascites.
The cell count is the single most important test performed on the ascitic fluid. It provides
immediate information about the possible bacterial infection. Samples with a predominance of
neutrophils and an absolute neutrophil count of > 250 per cubic mm should be presumed to be infected.
An elevated ascetic fluid WBC count is seen in all inflammatory processes and malignant ascites
Medical Diagnosis:
Ascites
This is the accumulation of free or pathologic fluid in the peritoneal cavity or abdominal cavity.
Risk factors:
Causative Factors:
Portal hypertension
Liver disease
Clinical Manifestations:
Symptoms vary from one patient to another but the following are from patient BVM’s case:
Abdominal distension
Shifting dullness on percussion and a fluid thrill
Everted umbilicus
Scrotal edema
Precipitating Factor:
Decompensated liver disease (Cirrhosis) caused
by excessive alcohol intake and smoking
Increased capillary
filtration pressure Decreased albumin Altered metabolism
Dilation of lymph
synthesis
channels draining liver
Peripheral arterial
vasodilation
Decreased capillary
Leakage of lymph into oncotic pressure
abdominal cavity
Increased renin
Decreased effective
aldosterone and
plasma volume
antidiuretic hormone
Increased renal
absorption of sodium
and water
Massive Ascites
This section shows the treatment given to patient Phantom. This includes the drugs, intravenous
fluids, and blood transfusion with the description, purpose and nursing intervention of each treatment
given.
Table1. Metoprolol
This is prescribed to the patient to treat severe chest pain and lowers the risk of heart attack. This
drug is also given to slow the heart beat and decrease the blood pressure. When the blood pressure is
lower, the amount of blood and oxygen is increases to the heart that relieved the angina (Micromedex,
n.d.). This is given 50 mg per day, given in single dose until optimum clinical response is achieved or there
is a pronounced slowing of the heart rate.
Lactulose 30 cc ODHS Lactulose is an osmotic laxative. 1. Mix with half glass of water and
This drug synthetic sugar used to may take up to 48 hours to act.
Date and Time treat constipation. It produces 2. Check for diarrhea because this
Ordered: osmotic effect, which increases may indicate that the dose is
February 05, 2019 water content in colon and too high.
enhances peristalsis. Breakdown 3. Assess amount, colour and
3:30 pm products in colon lead consistency of stool.
acidification of colonic content 4. Explain that lactulose may take
softening of stool, and decreased 2-3 days to effect. Advise that if
ammonia absorption from colon symptoms improve or worsen
to systemic circulation (Schull, notify and seek for medical
2013). attention.
5. Advise patient to drink plenty of
fluid while taking this medicine.
Table 2. Lactulose
Lactulose is given to treat constipation and help to eliminate ammonia in the blood via the stools
to prevent hepatic coma encephalopathy (Schull, 2013). This drug synthetic sugar used to treat
constipation. It is broken down in the colon into products that pull water out from the body and into the
colon. This water softens the stools (Lippincott, Williams 2008). Due to the clients liver cirrhosis the
ammonia in his blood is increase and it is manifested by decrease in level of consciousness, this drug is
given to the client to help in decreasing the ammonia by eliminating it through stools.
Tramadol is similar to opioids analgesics. According to (Meghan Wehner, 2015) Opioids are the most
common drug class for analgesia, particularly moderate and severe pain or pain not relieved by acetaminophen
and NSAIDs. Opioids can contribute to significant complications with cirrhosis, including precipitating
encephalopathy. This is given to the patient for management due to the client complaint of severe pain.
Table 4. Spironolactone
Table 5.Trimetazidine
This medication is given to the patient because it helps in aiding angina. This is use as a first line
agent for unstable angina or heart attack is not recommended. This medicine is also not indicated for use
as a curative treatment for angina (Practo, 2017).
Table 6. Furosemide
Loop diuretics inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the proximal part of the ascending loop of
henle, promoting the excretion of sodium, water, chloride, and potassium. This drug also has an effect that
may be the result of renal and peripheral vasodilation and a temporary increase in glomerular filtration rate
and a decrease in vascular resistance that causes hypotension (Schull, 2013). This was given because the client
has generalized edema, and ascites caused by hepatic cirrhosis. And also this was given to help aid in high blood
pressure.
Digoxin 0.25 mg 1 tab OD Digoxin increases the force of 1. Before giving drug, take apical-
contraction of the muscle of radial pulse for 1 minute. ( A sudden
February 12, 2019 the heart by inhibiting the increase or decrease in pulse rate,
8:00 pm activity of an enzyme (ATPase) irregular beats and rhythm check BP
that controls movement of and obtain 12-lead EGC.)
calcium, sodium, and 2. Monitor digoxin level. Therapeutic
potassium into heart muscle. level ranges 0.8-2ng/ml
(MedicineNet 3. Excessively slow PR may be a sign of
digitalis toxicity, withhold drug.
Digoxin remains one of the 4. Instruct patient to report N&V,
most frequently prescribed diarrhea, loss of appetite and visual
drugs in the management of
disturbance may indicate toxicity
atrial fibrillation.
Table 7. Digoxin
This was prescribed because the patient has a atrial fibrillation with aberrant conduction and
ventricular premature complexes as seen in the ECG result. The drug was given for restoration of sinus
rhythm that prevents recurrence and slowing of the ventricular rate.
Ceftriaxone injection is given before surgery to prevent infections that may develop after the
operation. (Rxlist 2018) Ceftriaxone was commonly utilized for pneumonia and it was also prescribed for
hepatic disorders (Mulugeta et.,al 2015)
Metronidazole works by entering bacterial and protozoal cells and interfering with their genetic
material (DNA). It damages the DNA and also prevents the bacteria and protozoa from forming new DNA.
This ultimately results in metronidazole killing the micro-organisms, which clears up the infection
(NetDoctor 2016). This antibiotic treats only certain bacterial and parasitic infections. (MPR 2019)
The patient was diagnosed of decompensated liver disease so tranexamic acid was prescribed in
order prevent uncontrollable bleeding. In addition, tranexamic acid can further alleviate conditions of the
following; hepatic encephalopathy, sepsis and ascites liquid infection.
Discharge planning is a process that aims to improve the coordination of services after discharge
from hospital by considering the patient's needs in the community. It sought to bridge the gap between
hospital and the place to which the patient is discharged, reduce length of stay in hospital, and minimize
Activity and Rest Encouraged to avoid extraneous activities like carrying heavy
playing basketball.
ROM.
Encouraged to take a nap during the day if you feel tired this
Medication and treatment Instructed take all medicines at the right time and with the
right dose.
Furosemide20mg 1tab OD
Diet and Nutrition Advised that it is important to eat a well-balanced diet and
and fresh meats such as lean red meat, poultry and seafood
are naturally low in sodium. Plain rice, pasta and other grains
options. Use lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, onion and herbs and
Health Teaching Educate the patient and family about the treatment plan
weigh the patient daily and to watch for and report signs and
symptoms of complications
follow-up appointments.
Due to the health teaching we have done to patient BVM we observed that some of the activities
were performed. Nurse learners have provided nurture and support needed to facilitate the adaptation
of health behaviors. This kind of help assures that the educational gains achieved by the client will be
We conclude that the health teaching such as diet and nutrition, adequate rest period and
After assessing the patient's condition, activities, and intervention done we have conclude that
massive ascites is a serious condition that needs immediate medical intervention. This can cause death to
the client who diagnosed with this. The prognosis for patient with ascites due to liver disease depends on
the underlying disorder, the degree of reversibility of a given disease process, and the response to
treatment. Ascites tends to occurs in a long standing rather than in short lived disorders. It occurs
commonly in cirrhosis, especially in cirrhosis caused by alcoholism. It may occur in other liver disorders,
such as severe alcoholic hepatitis without cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, and obstruction in the hepatic vein.
In the case of patient BVM with liver disease, development of ascites is an important landmark in
the natural history of cirrhosis. Adequate management of ascites is important, not only because it
improves quality of life in patients with cirrhosis, but also prevents serious complication such as SBP.
However, treatment of ascites does not significantly improve survival. Therefore, development of ascites
should be considered as an indication for transplantation. Liver transplantation is the ultimate treatment
RECOMMENDATION
Furthermore, the researchers recommend that the healthcare provider (HCP) be aware and
inform that liver disease is the leading cause of ascites. However, many serious conditions can lead to the
buildup of fluids in the abdomen. It is highly recommended to the patient to follow the discharge plan
given such as promote healthy diet especially sodium restrictions. Although dietary sodium should be
restricted to levels lower than urinary sodium excretion, sodium restriction to 2 g per day is realistic goal
particularly in an outpatient setting. Take diuretics as recommended by doctors. Patient should limit the
use of all medications including over-the-counter drugs, unless recommended by the doctors. Bed rest is
2. Fluid volume excess r/t compromised regulatory mechanisms secondary to cirrhosis of the liver
Schull, P. D. (2013). McGraw-Hill Nurse's Drug Handbook. United States: Mc-Graw-Hill Education.