Lactulose is ordered for a patient with liver disease. What would indicate the medication is exerting a positive therapeutic effect on the patient?
Decreased ascites
Decreased ammonia level
Decreased jaundice
Decreased blood pressure,
The Correct Answer is B
A. Decreased ascites
Ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity) is more directly related to portal hypertension and liver cirrhosis. While lactulose may contribute to fluid balance, its primary therapeutic effect in hepatic encephalopathy is the reduction of ammonia levels.
B. Decreased ammonia level
Lactulose is a medication commonly used in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy, a condition associated with liver disease. The therapeutic effect of lactulose in this context is to reduce blood ammonia levels. Lactulose works by promoting the excretion of ammonia in the form of ammonium ions in the colon, thereby lowering ammonia concentrations in the blood.
C. Decreased jaundice
Jaundice is often associated with liver dysfunction, but lactulose is not primarily used to address jaundice. Its primary role in liver disease is in the management of hepatic encephalopathy.
D. Decreased blood pressure
Blood pressure is not a direct therapeutic target of lactulose in the context of liver disease. Lactulose's primary therapeutic effect is related to reducing ammonia levels and managing hepatic encephalopathy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Dietary restriction while taking hydrocodone
There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with hydrocodone use. This option is not relevant to hydrocodone therapy.
B. Instructions not to exceed recommended dosage
It is crucial to emphasize to the patient not to exceed the recommended dosage of hydrocodone. Exceeding the prescribed dose can lead to adverse effects, including respiratory depression.
C. Instructions not to use alcohol or CNS depressants while taking hydrocodone
Hydrocodone is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Combining it with alcohol or other CNS depressants can increase the risk of respiratory depression and sedation. Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol and other drugs that depress the CNS.
D. Instructions on how to prevent constipation
Opioid medications, including hydrocodone, can cause constipation. Patients should receive instructions on how to prevent constipation, such as increasing fluid and fiber intake and incorporating regular physical activity.
E. Side effects to report
Patients should be educated about potential side effects of hydrocodone and instructed to report any unusual or severe side effects to their healthcare provider promptly. This may include symptoms such as respiratory distress, severe drowsiness, or allergic reactions.
Correct Answer is ["40"]
Explanation
To calculate the dosage of docusate sodium (Colace) for a 10-year-old child, we need to divide the total amount of medication by the number of doses. The total amount of medication is 120 mg/day, and the number of doses is 3. Therefore, we can use the following formula:
Dosage per dose = Total amount / Number of doses
Dosage per dose = 120 mg / 3
Dosage per dose = 40 mg
The child will receive 40 mg of docusate sodium (Colace) per dose, three times a day.
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