Which of the following might be a sign of a deteriorating condition in liver failure patients?

In patients with liver failure, a declining mental status is a significant sign of a deteriorating condition. This may be indicative of hepatic encephalopathy, a complication where toxins build up in the bloodstream due to the liver's impaired ability to detoxify. Symptoms may range from subtle changes in personality or cognition to confusion and even coma, reflecting the severity of liver impairment.

In contrast, the other options do not signal deterioration. Increased energy levels and improved cognitive function are not typical in liver failure; rather, they suggest recovery or stabilization. Normal bowel function also does not indicate deterioration and may occur regardless of the state of the liver’s health, highlighting the complexity of the symptoms associated with liver failure. Thus, a decline in mental status can serve as a critical marker of worsening liver function and necessitates immediate medical attention.