A nurse is preparing to administer a dose of lactulose to a client diagnosed with cirrhosis. The client states, "I don't need this medication. I am not constipated." The nurse should explain that in clients who have cirrhosis, lactulose is used to decrease levels of which of the following components in the bloodstream?
Potassium
Ammonia
Glucose
Bicarbonate
The Correct Answer is B
A. Lactulose is not used to decrease potassium levels. It is a laxative that works by drawing water into the colon, softening stools and promoting bowel movements.
B. Lactulose is used to decrease ammonia levels in clients with cirrhosis. Ammonia is a byproduct of protein metabolism, and when the liver is compromised, it may not effectively convert ammonia into urea, leading to elevated ammonia levels in the bloodstream. Lactulose helps reduce ammonia absorption in the colon.
C. Lactulose does not decrease glucose levels significantly. It is not primarily used as an antidiabetic medication.
D. Lactulose does not affect bicarbonate levels significantly. It primarily targets ammonia reduction in clients with cirrhosis.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Lactulose is not used to decrease potassium levels. It is a laxative that works by drawing water into the colon, softening stools and promoting bowel movements.
B. Lactulose is used to decrease ammonia levels in clients with cirrhosis. Ammonia is a byproduct of protein metabolism, and when the liver is compromised, it may not effectively convert ammonia into urea, leading to elevated ammonia levels in the bloodstream. Lactulose helps reduce ammonia absorption in the colon.
C. Lactulose does not decrease glucose levels significantly. It is not primarily used as an antidiabetic medication.
D. Lactulose does not affect bicarbonate levels significantly. It primarily targets ammonia reduction in clients with cirrhosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Storing unopened bottles of insulin in the freezer is incorrect. Insulin should be stored in the refrigerator, and freezing can damage the insulin.
B. Having a morning blood glucose level between 200 and 230 is too high. The target range for fasting blood glucose is generally lower, and elevated levels may indicate the need for adjustment in insulin or other medications.
C. Eating a snack half an hour before playing soccer is a correct understanding. This helps prevent hypoglycemia during physical activity. Physical activity can lower blood glucose levels, and a pre-activity snack can provide additional carbohydrates to prevent low blood sugar.
D. Not taking regular insulin when sick is incorrect. In fact, insulin needs may increase during illness, and it is usually recommended to continue taking insulin even when sick. Adjustments to the insulin regimen may be needed under the guidance of healthcare providers.
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