Hepatic Encephalopathy

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common reason for admission to the hospitalist service, and is often a consequence of decompensated cirrhosis.¹ HE is a complex illness with a wide variety of presentations, ranging from mild forgetfulness to complete obtundation.^2,3 Accurate and timely diagnosis of this condition is complex and requires careful history, exam, and evaluation of laboratory and imaging data.⁴

Patients who develop HE are at risk of recurrence,⁵ and while care of the hospitalized patient with HE frequently starts in the inpatient setting, this diagnosis requires close attention on discharge to ensure long-term success.⁶

SHM has provided a compendium and supplemental suite of resources to provide evidence-based guidance for the diagnosis and management of HE, as well as strategies to prevent recurrence and support safe discharge practices.

Learning Materials include:

• Compendium reviewing HE diagnosis, management, prevention of recurrence, strategies for safe discharge, and goals for patient education

• Diagnostic Pathway for the hospitalist evaluating HE

• Treatment Plan for the hospitalist treating HE

• Discharge Checklist for patients preparing to leave the hospital after hospitalization for HE

• Patient Education Resource for patients preparing to leave the hospital after hospitalization for HE (available in English and Spanish)