CPNRE Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Ace Your Canadian Practical Nurse Registration!

Hepatitis C is commonly referred to as the "silent killer" primarily because many individuals infected with the virus remain asymptomatic for years, or even decades. This lack of symptoms can lead to a false sense of security, allowing the infection to progress unnoticed. Even in the absence of overt signs of illness, the virus can cause ongoing liver damage, potentially leading to serious complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer that may only become evident much later in life.

The other options do not reflect the true nature of hepatitis C. For instance, while some clients may eventually display symptoms as the disease progresses, it is far from the case that they typically exhibit severe symptoms initially. The notion that it results in immediate death is inaccurate, as many people live for years without significant health issues following initial infection. Lastly, the idea that it only affects older adults is misleading; hepatitis C can impact individuals of any age, though certain populations may be at higher risk due to historical practices or behaviors.