A nurse is preparing to administer a dose of lactulose to a client who has 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
Bicarbonate
Glucose
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Potassium levels are not directly affected by lactulose. While cirrhosis can lead to imbalances in electrolytes, including potassium, lactulose is not used to manage potassium levels in the bloodstream.
Choice B rationale
Ammonia is produced by the breakdown of proteins in the intestines and is normally processed by the liver. In cirrhosis, the liver's ability to convert ammonia to urea is impaired, leading to increased levels in the blood. Lactulose helps reduce blood ammonia levels by converting it into ammonium, which is then excreted.
Choice C rationale
Bicarbonate levels are related to the body's pH balance and are not the target of lactulose treatment. Cirrhosis does not typically result in bicarbonate imbalances that would be treated with lactulose.
Choice D rationale
Glucose levels are managed by insulin and other metabolic processes, not lactulose. While cirrhosis can affect overall metabolism, lactulose does not have a direct effect on blood glucose levels.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Jaundice of the sclera is indicative of hyperbilirubinemia, which can occur in various liver diseases but is not specifically associated with Grey Turner's sign or pancreatitis.
Choice B rationale
Bluish discoloration of the periumbilical area, known as Cullen's sign, is another indicator of severe pancreatitis but is distinct from Grey Turner's sign, which specifically refers to the flank area.
Choice C rationale
Left abdominal pain that occurs with movement may be a symptom experienced by patients with pancreatitis, but it is not referred to as Grey Turner's sign, which is a physical finding rather than a symptom.
Choice D rationale
Grey Turner's sign is characterized by bluish discoloration of the flank area. It is a sign of retroperitoneal hemorrhage, which can occur in severe cases of pancreatitis due to the spread of pancreatic enzymes to surrounding tissues, leading to localized bleeding.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Anorexia, or loss of appetite, is common in UC due to abdominal pain and discomfort, as well as the psychological impact of chronic illness.
Choice B rationale
Rectal bleeding is a hallmark symptom of UC, indicating moderate to severe inflammation of the colon, which can lead to ulcers and bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Left lower quadrant pain is typical in UC because the disease often affects the descending colon, which is located in this area.
Choice D rationale
Right lower quadrant pain is more characteristic of conditions like appendicitis. UC typically does not cause pain in this area unless it is extensive and involves the right colon.
Choice E rationale
Steatorrhea, or fatty stools, can occur in UC if the disease affects the ileum, leading to malabsorption of fats.
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