The nurse is taking care of a client diagnosed with advanced liver disease with hepatic encephalopathy. Lactulose (Cephulac) is administered to the patient to reduce which of the following?
Ammonia
Muscle rigidity
Seizures
Drooling at times
Mask-like facial expression
Shuffled gait
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: Ammonia
Lactulose is administered to patients with hepatic encephalopathy to reduce the levels of ammonia in the blood. Hepatic encephalopathy occurs due to the liver’s inability to detoxify ammonia, a byproduct of protein metabolism. Lactulose works by converting ammonia into ammonium, which is then excreted in the stool. This helps to lower blood ammonia levels and alleviate the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice B: Dysarthria
Dysarthria, or difficulty in articulating words, is a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. It results from the muscle rigidity and bradykinesia (slowness of movement) that affect the muscles involved in speech. Patients with Parkinson’s often have a soft, monotone voice and may struggle with the clarity of their speech.
Choice C: Muscle Rigidity
Muscle rigidity is one of the hallmark symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It refers to the stiffness and inflexibility of the muscles, which can affect any part of the body. This rigidity can lead to discomfort and pain, and it contributes to the characteristic stooped posture and shuffling gait seen in Parkinson’s patients.
Choice D: Seizures
Seizures are not typically associated with Parkinson’s disease. While Parkinson’s affects the central nervous system, it primarily impacts motor function rather than causing seizure activity. Therefore, this is not a common finding in Parkinson’s patients.
Choice E: Drooling at Times
Drooling, or sialorrhea, is a common symptom in Parkinson’s disease. It occurs due to the decreased ability to swallow saliva, which can result from muscle rigidity and bradykinesia affecting the muscles involved in swallowing. This can be particularly bothersome for patients and may require management strategies.
Choice F: Mask-like Facial Expression
A mask-like facial expression, also known as hypomimia, is a common feature of Parkinson’s disease. It results from the rigidity and bradykinesia affecting the facial muscles, leading to reduced facial expressions and a fixed, staring appearance.
Choice G: Shuffled Gait
A shuffled gait is a characteristic feature of Parkinson’s disease. Patients often take small, shuffling steps and may have difficulty initiating movement. This gait pattern is due to the combination of muscle rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.
Choice H: Stooped Posture
Stooped posture is another common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. It results from the muscle rigidity and postural instability that affect the patient’s ability to maintain an upright position. This can lead to a forward-leaning posture and balance issues.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["31"]
Explanation
Let’s calculate the IV infusion rate step by step.
Step 1: Determine the total volume to be infused.
The total volume ordered is 1,000 mL.
Step 2: Determine the total time for the infusion.
The total time is 8 hours.
Step 3: Calculate the infusion rate in mL per hour.
Total volume (1,000 mL) ÷ Total time (8 hours) = 125 mL per hour.
Result: 125
Step 4: Determine the drop factor.
The IV tubing delivers 15 drops per milliliter.
Step 5: Calculate the infusion rate in drops per minute.
Infusion rate (125 mL per hour) × Drop factor (15 drops per mL) = 1,875 drops per hour.
Result: 1,875
Step 6: Convert the infusion rate to drops per minute.
Total drops per hour (1,875 drops) ÷ 60 minutes = 31.25 drops per minute.
Result: 31.25
Step 7: Round the result to the nearest whole number if necessary.
31.25 rounded to the nearest whole number is 31.
The nurse should run the IV infusion at a rate of 31 drops per minute.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Weigh the client daily: While monitoring weight is important for clients with Addison’s disease, it is not the primary action to prevent an Addisonian crisis. Daily weight monitoring helps track fluid balance and detect any sudden changes that might indicate complications, but it does not directly address the hormonal imbalance that characterizes Addisonian crisis.
Choice B Reason:
Restrict food intake: Restricting food intake is not recommended for clients with Addison’s disease. Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall health. Clients with Addison’s disease need a balanced diet to manage their condition effectively. Restricting food intake could lead to malnutrition and exacerbate symptoms.
Choice C Reason:
Administer oral corticosteroids: This is the correct action. Addison’s disease is characterized by insufficient production of cortisol and aldosterone by the adrenal glands. Administering oral corticosteroids helps replace the deficient hormones and manage the symptoms of Addison’s disease. During an Addisonian crisis, immediate administration of corticosteroids is critical to prevent severe complications such as shock, coma, or even death.
Choice D Reason:
Provide a low carbohydrate diet: A low carbohydrate diet is not specifically recommended for clients with Addison’s disease. Instead, a balanced diet that includes adequate carbohydrates, proteins, and fats is essential. Carbohydrates are important for maintaining energy levels, especially since clients with Addison’s disease may experience fatigue and weakness. Restricting carbohydrates could lead to low blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for these clients.
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