A client with hepatic encephalopathy is receiving lactulose. Which assessment provides the nurse with the nest information to evaluate the client’s therapeutic response to the drug?
Fingerstick glucose.
Serum electrolytes and ammonia.
Stool color and character.
Serum hepatic enzymes.
The Correct Answer is B
Lactulose is a medication commonly used in the management of hepatic encephalopathy. It works by reducing the absorption of ammonia in the gut, which is a toxin that can accumulate in the blood in patients with liver dysfunction.
Monitoring serum electrolytes and ammonia levels can help the nurse evaluate the effectiveness of lactulose therapy. Elevated ammonia levels can indicate that the medication is not effectively reducing ammonia absorption and may require adjustment in dose or frequency. Additionally, monitoring electrolyte levels can help detect any imbalances that may occur because of lactulose therapy.
Fingerstick glucose levels (option A) are not relevant to evaluating the therapeutic response of lactulose in hepatic encephalopathy.
Stool color and character (option C) may be monitored to assess the side effects of lactulose, such as diarrhea, but are not the best assessments to evaluate therapeutic response.
Serum hepatic enzymes (option D) may be useful in assessing the severity of liver disease but are not the best assessment to evaluate the therapeutic response of lactulose in hepatic encephalopathy.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Lovastatin is an antilipemic medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood1. It is important for clients taking lovastatin to avoid drinking alcohol as it can increase the risk of liver problems. If the client remarks that they will avoid taking alcoholic beverages while taking this medication, it indicates that they understand the drug’s treatment protocol.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Probenecid is a uricosuric drug that works by inhibiting the reabsorption of uric acid in the kidneys and promotes its excretion in the urine. This drug is used to treat gout and hyperuricemia (high levels of uric acid in the blood). Therefore, the nurse should explain to the client that the purpose of probenecid is to promote the excretion of uric acid in the urine and lower the levels of uric acid in the blood, which can help prevent gout attacks and kidney stones.
Options a, b, and d are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the mechanism of action or purpose of probenecid.

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