What symptom should a nurse expect to observe in a client diagnosed with acute viral hepatitis?

In the context of acute viral hepatitis, fatigue is a common and significant symptom that can be expected. Acute viral hepatitis leads to inflammation of the liver, which often results in a series of systemic effects due to the liver's crucial role in metabolism, detoxification, and energy production. As the liver becomes inflamed and compromised, individuals frequently experience a sense of overwhelming tiredness and lack of energy. This fatigue can be attributed to the body's immune response to the infection as it tries to fight off the virus.

While other symptoms related to acute viral hepatitis may also occur, fatigue is particularly prominent and can affect a client's daily activities and overall well-being significantly. Monitoring for fatigue can be important in assessing the severity of the infection and guiding management strategies.