In this focused review, we examine hepatitis and cirrhosis, including inflammatory liver injury, viral transmission patterns, progression to chronic disease, and permanent hepatic scarring. This episode reviews the major types of viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D, and E), routes of transmission, laboratory interpretation, and liver biopsy care. Emphasis is placed on recognizing jaundice, dark urine, clay-colored stools, elevated liver enzymes, and infectious risk. The episode also explores cirrhosis pathophysiology, portal hypertension, ascites, varices, hepatic encephalopathy, and liver failure. Nursing priorities related to fluid management, ammonia reduction, bleeding precautions, medication safety, transplantation monitoring, and complication recognition are discussed to strengthen clinical judgment and safe patient care.

Source: All information in this podcast is based on ATI Advanced Medical-Surgical Nursing, Chapter 56.