What important question should the nurse ask a client with Laënnec's cirrhosis history?

In the context of Laënnec's cirrhosis, which is primarily caused by chronic alcohol abuse, it is essential for the nurse to inquire about the patient's alcohol consumption habits. Understanding whether the client abuses alcohol can provide crucial insight into the progression of liver disease, the need for potential interventions, and the overall management plan for the patient's health.

Assessing alcohol use is not just about confirming the diagnosis; it also allows the healthcare provider to discuss the risks associated with continued alcohol consumption, including the further deterioration of liver function and the potential for liver-related complications. It also sets the groundwork for guiding the patient toward resources for counseling or rehabilitation if needed.

While each of the other questions is pertinent in specific clinical situations—cardiac disease can affect other aspects of health, biliary obstruction may relate indirectly to liver function, and chemical exposure can pose risks to the liver—the most relevant and direct concern in the case of Laënnec's cirrhosis is the history of alcohol consumption.