A patient with jaundice and abdominal distension may require which lab to assess for liver failure?

To evaluate a patient presenting with jaundice and abdominal distension for possible liver failure, it is critical to assess liver function and overall metabolic status. The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) is the correct choice as it includes a variety of tests that provide crucial information about the liver's ability to function.

The CMP encompasses several important markers, such as liver enzymes (AST, ALT), bilirubin levels, and alkaline phosphatase. Elevated bilirubin levels can indicate liver dysfunction, while abnormal enzyme levels can signal hepatocellular injury or cholestasis. By combining these assessments, the CMP provides a broader picture of the patient’s liver status alongside their metabolic function.

Other types of tests, while potentially informative in specific situations, do not offer the same comprehensive insight into liver health as the CMP. For instance, a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) primarily assesses kidney function and electrolyte balance without direct liver markers. A Complete Blood Count (CBC) provides information on blood cells but lacks specific liver function indicators. Prothrombin Time (PTT) is useful for assessing coagulation and can reflect liver function indirectly, yet it does not encompass the full range of liver function tests needed to evaluate liver failure comprehensively. Thus, the CMP is the most