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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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Insulin glargine does not have a duration of 3 to 6 hours. This duration of action is much shorter than the actual duration of insulin glargine.
B. Insulin glargine does not have a duration of 14 to 22 hours. This duration is shorter than the typical duration of action for insulin glargine.
C. Insulin glargine, a long-acting insulin, has a duration of action that lasts approximately 24 to 36 hours. It provides a slow and steady release of insulin, offering a relatively consistent blood sugar-lowering effect over an extended period.
D. Insulin glargine does not have a duration of 6 to 10 hours. This duration is shorter than the actual duration of action for insulin glargine.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Blood glucose level below 40 mg/dL is not typical in diabetic ketoacidosis. DKA is characterized by hyperglycemia, and blood glucose levels are usually significantly elevated.
B. Acetone odor to breath is a classic sign of diabetic ketoacidosis. The presence of ketones, including acetone, can result in a fruity or sweet odor to the breath. This is often referred to as "ketone breath."
C. Malignant hypertension is not a typical manifestation of diabetic ketoacidosis. DKA is more commonly associated with dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic acidosis.
D. Cheyne-Stokes breathing is not a characteristic respiratory pattern seen in diabetic ketoacidosis. Respiratory changes in DKA are more likely to involve rapid and deep breathing (Kussmaul respirations) as the body attempts to compensate for metabolic acidosis.
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