Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Portal hypertension develops when hepatic fibrosis (usually from cirrhosis) increases resistance to portal venous flow through the liver sinusoids. Portal pressure exceeds 5 mmHg (clinically significant >10 mmHg), causing portosystemic collateral formation (varices), splanchnic vasodilation, ascites, and hepatorenal syndrome through complex neurohormonal activation. Connect Portal Hypertension to bedside cues you will reassess first: vitals trends, work of breathing, perfusion, mentation, and pain or ischemic equivalents when relevant. Boards reward recognizing when subtle instability outweighs reassurance, then selecting nursing actions that protect airway, circulation, and neurologic status before routine tasks.