Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver due to toxins, such as chemicals or drugs or agents that cause infections. Hepatitis that lasts less than 6 months of so-called "acute hepatitis", hepatitis lasting more than 6 months of so-called "chronic hepatitis".

Hepatitis usually occurs due to a virus, especially one of the five hepatitis viruses, A, B, C, D or E. Hepatitis can also occur due to other viral infections, such as infectious mononucleosis, yellow fever and cytomegalovirus infection. Causes of non-viral hepatitis is the main alcohol and drugs.

Hepatitis A usually resolves itself without becoming chronic. Once cured, it will be immune to hepatitis A, but not immune to other types of hepatitis.
5 percent of patients with chronic hepatitis B will be, because it is not handled properly.


Nursing Diagnosis for Hepatitis

Activity Intolerance related to fatigue and generalized malaise.


Expected outcome :

Exhibits increased ability to carry out desired activities and allow sufficient periods for rest and relaxation.


Nursing Intervention for Hepatitis
  • Encourage the patient to limit activity when fatigue
  • Assist the patient in planning periods of rest and activity when symptoms begin to subside.
  • Encourage gradual resumption of activities and mild excercise during recovery.

Abdominal pain related to tender, enlarged liver.

Expected outcome :

Report a decrease or absence of abdominal pain and tenderness;restrict activities if pain occurs;participates in planned activities when free of pain; take prescribed analgesic if necessary.


Nursing Intervention for Hepatitis
  • Asses and record presence or absence of abdominal pain or tenderness, hepatomegally and splenomegally.
  • Encourage the patient to maintain bedrest or restrict activities if abdominal pain or tenderness is present.
  • Administer analgesic as prescribed.
  • Notify the physian of sudden occuraence or increase in pain or tenderness.