A nurse is caring for a client who has cirrhosis and a prescription for lactulose. Following administration, the nurse should monitor the client for which of the following adverse effects?
Peripheral edema
Diarrhea
Dry mouth
Headache
The Correct Answer is B
After administering lactulose to a client with cirrhosis, the nurse should monitor for the adverse effects of diarrhea. Lactulose is a laxative commonly used in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy, which can occur in individuals with cirrhosis. One of the intended effects of lactulose is to promote bowel movements and reduce the absorption of ammonia in the gut, thus helping to manage hepatic encephalopathy.
While lactulose can cause adverse effects such as diarrhea, it is not typically associated with peripheral edema. Peripheral edema is often seen in cirrhosis due to fluid retention caused by liver dysfunction.
Dry mouth and headache are less commonly associated with lactulose use and are not typically the primary adverse effects to monitor for in this scenario.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medication commonly used to reduce stomach acid production. It is prescribed for conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and stomach ulcers. One of the primary goals of esomeprazole is to alleviate stomach pain and discomfort associated with excessive stomach acid.
The other statements mentioned are not directly related to the effectiveness of esomeprazole: "My feet are no longer sore and itchy": Sore and itchy feet are not typical symptoms relieved by esomeprazole. This statement does not indicate the medication's effectiveness.
"I can move my joints more easily": Improved joint mobility is not a direct effect of esomeprazole. This statement does not relate to the medication's purpose.
"My bowel movements have increased in frequency and are much softer": Esomeprazole primarily affects stomach acid production and is not directly related to bowel movements. This statement is not indicative of the medication's effectiveness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn. Orange juice is highly acidic, and consuming acidic foods and beverages can exacerbate the symptoms of GERD. The acidic nature of orange juice can irritate the esophagus and contribute to increased acid reflux, leading to heartburn.
Sleeping on a large wedge-style pillow can actually help alleviate symptoms of GERD by elevating the head and upper body, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux during sleep.
Eating dinner early in the evening is generally recommended for individuals with GERD as it allows sufficient time for digestion before lying down. This can help prevent acid reflux during sleep.
Consuming low-fat meats is also a favorable choice for individuals with GERD as fatty foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. However, the options provided do not include any fatty foods, so it is not the primary contributing factor to the client's heartburn in this case.
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