Using Bedside Ultrasound to Understand Fluid Management in Patients With Chronic Liver Disease

The goal of this observational study is to see if repeated bedside ultrasound measurements of the lungs and abdomen as well as a blood vessel in the neck can be done in patients with advanced liver disease and ascites (fluid in the abdomen) on hospital wards and day case units. We will also learn about how patients view this test. The main questions it will answer are: How long does it take to do the measurements? How often are we able to get all the measurements we are trying to do? How do patients feel about having this test done? For patients in the study this will involve: Undergoing ultrasound scans of the neck, chest and abdomen on at least one occasion during hospital admission, and up to a maximum of five times in a day. An extra blood test may be taken at the same time as usual blood tests taken during the hospital stay. A brief questionnaire about their experience of having the test.

Inclusion Criteria: * Participants must be capable of giving informed consent * Hospitalized patients with liver cirrhosis (of any cause) and clinically significant ascites * \> 18 years of age Exclusion Criteria: * patients receiving end of life care