A nurse is providing education to the partner of a client who has hepatic encephalopathy about a prescription for lactulose. Which of the following statements should the nurse make to the client's partner?
"There should be a decrease in the number of bowel movements with this medication."
"IV administration is the preferred route to give this medication."
"This medication will treat the infection that is causing the confusion."
"We will monitor the serum ammonia level to help determine if the medication is effective."
The Correct Answer is D
A. Lactulose is a laxative that works by reducing the absorption of ammonia in the colon, leading to increased bowel movements. Therefore, there should be an increase rather than a decrease in the number of bowel movements with this medication.
B. Lactulose is typically administered orally or rectally, not intravenously.
C. Lactulose does not treat infection; it helps reduce ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy by promoting bowel movements to expel ammonia.
D. Monitoring the serum ammonia level is essential in assessing the effectiveness of lactulose therapy. Reduction in serum ammonia levels indicates that the medication is working to reduce ammonia absorption in the colon.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["42"]
Explanation
Volume to infuse= 1000ml Duration= 24 hrs
Rate= volume/duration
=1000/24
= 41.67ml/hr
Rounded off to the nearest whole number = 42ml/hr
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Providing a nonskid placemat can help prevent spills and accidents during meals, especially for a client with right-sided weakness who may have difficulty with coordination and balance.
B. Instructing the client to tilt their head back when swallowing is not recommended and may increase the risk of aspiration, particularly for a client with dysphagia.
C. Instructing the client to chew food on the right side of their mouth may not be feasible or effective, especially if there is weakness on the right side.
D. Providing narrow-grip utensils may not directly address the client's needs related to dysphagia and right-sided weakness.
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