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 A
Explanation
Sucralfate is a medication used to treat peptic ulcers by forming a protective coating on the stomach lining. It should be taken on an empty stomach, as food can interfere with its absorption and effectiveness. One hour before breakfast and the evening meal is the correct timing for administering sucralfate, allowing for an empty stomach before meals.
At the time the client takes a proton pump inhibitor: Proton pump inhibitors are a different class of medications used to reduce stomach acid production. It is recommended to administer sucralfate separately, as it works differently and has different administration requirements.
Thirty minutes after breakfast and the evening meal: Administering sucralfate after meals is not ideal, as it may not provide the desired therapeutic effect on an empty stomach.
The time the client takes an antacid: Antacids are also different from sucralfate, and they can interfere with its absorption. It is generally recommended to administer sucralfate separately from antacids.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
When reinforcing teaching about cimetidine with a client who has peptic ulcer disease, the nurse should include the following information:
"Wait at least 1 hour after taking the medication before taking an antacid.": Cimetidine is a histamine-2 receptor antagonist that reduces stomach acid production. Taking an antacid too close in time to cimetidine may decrease its effectiveness as antacids can interfere with its absorption. The nurse should advise the client to follow the healthcare provider's instructions regarding the timing and administration of cimetidine and antacids.
The following statements are incorrect or not applicable:
"Expect breast tenderness while taking this medication.": Breast tenderness is not a common side effect of cimetidine. If the client experiences any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking the medication, they should consult their healthcare provider for further evaluation.
"Take this medication on an empty stomach.": To reduce stomach upset, this medication should be taken with food or milk
"Take ibuprofen for occasional aches and pains.": Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications, including ulcers. In individuals with peptic ulcer disease, it is generally recommended to avoid NSAIDs unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider. The nurse should emphasize the importance of discussing any pain management strategies or medications with the healthcare provider before use.
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