The biopsy of Mr. Gonzales confirms the diagnosis of cirrhosis. Mr. Gonzales is at increased risk for excessive bleeding primarily because of:
A. Impaired clotting mechanism
B. Varix formation
C. Inadequate nutrition
D. Trauma of invasive procedure
Correct Answer: A. Impaired clotting mechanism
Cirrhosis of the liver results in decreased Vitamin K absorption and formation of clotting factors resulting in impaired clotting mechanism.
Option B: Esophageal varices sometimes form when blood flow to the liver is blocked, most often by scar tissue in the liver caused by liver disease.
Option C: Inadequate nutrition alone cannot cause excessive bleeding in cirrhosis.
Option D: An invasive procedure may cause trauma that may result in bleeding, but the client has not yet undergone any invasive procedure.