A client with cirrhosis is scheduled to receive a third dose of lactulose (Cephulac) at 1800. Which current finding would cause the nurse to question administering this medication?
Breath with fecal odor
Increasing confusion
Serum ammonia level 72 mcg/dL (15-45 mcg/dL)
Diarrhea
The Correct Answer is D
A) Breath with fecal odor could indicate hepatic encephalopathy, for which lactulose is indicated.
B) Increasing confusion is a symptom of hepatic encephalopathy suggests a need for lactulose.
C) Elevated ammonia levels indicate hepatic encephalopathy hence the need for lactulose.
D) If the client already has diarrhea, additional doses of lactulose (which acts as a laxative) could exacerbate this condition and might need to be adjusted or halted based on clinical judgment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) These are dilated veins in the esophagus that can rupture and lead to life- threatening bleeding.
B) While concerning and indicative of hepatic encephalopathy, it is not immediately life-threatening like a variceal bleed.
C) Indicates poor nutritional status and liver function but is not as acutely dangerous as bleeding varices.
D) This is a concern but does not represent an immediate life-threatening condition like esophageal varices.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Pancrelipase may be prescribed to aid in digestion in chronic pancreatitis but is not typically used in the acute phase.
B) While ambulation may be encouraged as tolerated, it is not a specific prescription for acute pancreatitis.
C) Pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, is often prescribed in acute pancreatitis to reduce gastric acid secretion, thereby reducing pancreatic stimulation and promoting healing.
D) In acute pancreatitis, dietary intake is typically restricted initially, often starting with nothing by mouth (NPO) and progressing to a clear liquid diet as tolerated; a low-residue diet is usually introduced at a later stage.
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