The nurse is caring for a client who has ascites and hepatic encephalopathy. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse clarify with the primary healthcare provider (PHCP)?
Rifaximin
Lactulose
Spironolactone
Alprazolam
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale: Used in the management of hepatic encephalopathy by reducing the production of ammonia in the gut.
Choice B rationale: Often prescribed to reduce ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy by promoting bowel movements and aiding ammonia excretion. Choice C rationale: Typically used in managing ascites by reducing fluid retention and treating edema.
Choice D rationale: This medication can potentially worsen hepatic encephalopathy due to its sedative effects and impact on mental function. It's crucial to clarify its use in a patient with hepatic encephalopathy.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: The combination treats gonorrhea and chlamydia but not trichomonas.
Choice B rationale: While important, this combination aims to treat multiple potential infections, not solely prevent reinfection.
Choice C rationale: The dual therapy doesn’t cover syphilis; it's specifically targeted for gonorrhea and chlamydia.
Choice D rationale: Azithromycin covers both gonorrhea and chlamydia, so the combination ensures coverage for both possible infections.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Furosemide is a loop diuretic used to increase urine output by blocking the reabsorption of sodium and water. It's not typically associated with hyperkalemia. In fact, it's more common for loop diuretics like furosemide to cause hypokalemia (low potassium) due to increased urinary excretion of potassium.
Choice B rationale: Lovastatin is a statin used to lower cholesterol levels. It is not related to increased cholesterol. Additionally, there is no known direct interaction between lovastatin and furosemide. Furosemide is a diuretic, while selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of antidepressants, and they do not typically interact in a way that requires discontinuation.
Choice C rationale: Duloxetine is an antidepressant (SNRI), and glipizide is an oral diabetes medication. There's no direct interaction between duloxetine and glipizide that would necessitate discontinuation.
Choice D rationale: Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) is a sulfonamide antibiotic, and glipizide belongs to the sulfonylurea class of medications. Both drugs contain sulfur groups in their chemical structures, and there is a possibility of cross-reactivity or drug interaction. This interaction can potentially reduce the effectiveness of glipizide, leading to compromised blood sugar control. Additionally, sulfonamide antibiotics like trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole can cause adverse reactions, including skin rashes or hypersensitivity reactions, particularly in individuals sensitive to sulfa medications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
