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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The client's symptoms suggest liver dysfunction, which is a known adverse effect of albendazole. Albendazole is primarily metabolized in the liver, and its use can cause liver damage in some cases. Therefore, it is essential to review liver function test results to assess the severity of liver damage and to determine if the medication should be discontinued or the dosage should be adjusted.
The renal function panel (a) measures the levels of various substances, such as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, in the blood to assess kidney function.
The thyroid function test (b) evaluates the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood to diagnose thyroid disorders.
The basic metabolic panel (c) includes several tests that assess the levels of electrolytes, glucose, and other substances in the blood to evaluate metabolic function. However, these lab tests are not directly related to the symptoms and adverse effects associated with albendazole use
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive medication commonly used to prevent graft rejection after organ transplantation. St. John's Wort is known to induce cytochrome P450 enzymes, which can increase the metabolism and decrease the effectiveness of many medications, including cyclosporine. This interaction can lead to decreased plasma concentrations of cyclosporine, which can increase the risk of graft rejection. Therefore, it is important to advise the client to discontinue the use of St. John's Wort and inform their healthcare provider about any herbal or supplement use to prevent potential interactions with prescribed medications. Options a, c, and d are not directly related to the client's current condition and are not as significant as option b.
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