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) Chronic damage to the pancreas can lead to diabetes mellitus due to the destruction of insulin-producing cells.
B) Jaundice is typically associated with liver disease, not directly linked with chronic pancreatitis.
C) Ascites is a complication of liver disease, not typically a direct result of chronic pancreatitis.
D) While steatorrhea is a symptom of chronic pancreatitis due to malabsorption of fats, it is not a complication but rather a direct effect of the enzyme insufficiency.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Weight loss is a common symptom of chronic pancreatitis due to malabsorption and decreased appetite.
B) Cool, clammy skin is not typically associated with chronic pancreatitis; it may indicate other conditions such as shock or hypotension.
C) Bruising on the flank is not a typical finding in chronic pancreatitis; it may suggest trauma or other underlying conditions.
D) Ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, is more commonly associated with advanced liver disease rather than chronic pancreatitis.
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