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 A
Explanation
Misoprostol should not be used during pregnancy as it can cause harm to the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while taking misoprostol. If there is a chance of conception, the healthcare provider should be contacted immediately. A negative pregnancy test is required before starting therapy with misoprostol .
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Tamsulosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker that is commonly used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). One of the potential adverse reactions of tamsulosin is hypotension, which can be manifested as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. Therefore, monitoring blood pressure is a crucial intervention for clients receiving tamsulosin.
Assessing urine output (option a) and performing a bladder scan (option b) may be appropriate interventions for clients with urinary retention or other urinary tract issues, but they are not specific to monitoring adverse reactions to tamsulosin.
Obtaining daily weights (option d) may be useful for monitoring fluid balance in some clients, but it is not directly related to adverse reactions to tamsulosin.
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