The physician orders a patient with a duodenal ulcer to take a UREA breath test. Which lab value will the test measure to determine if
H. Pylori is present?
Ammonia
Hydrochloric Acid
Potassium
Carbon Dioxide
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
The UREA breath test does not measure ammonia levels. While H. pylori can convert urea to ammonia and carbon dioxide, the test specifically measures the level of carbon dioxide in the breath.
Choice B rationale
The UREA breath test does not measure hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid is produced by the stomach to aid in digestion, but it is not measured in the UREA breath test.
Choice C rationale
The UREA breath test does not measure potassium. Potassium is an important electrolyte in the body, but it is not related to the presence of H. pylori or the UREA breath test.
Choice D rationale
The UREA breath test measures carbon dioxide in the breath.
H. pylori bacteria break down urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. Excess carbon dioxide in the breath is a sign of an H. pylori infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering appropriate antibiotic therapy is a common nursing intervention to manage H. pylori infection. The recommended treatment for H. pylori typically involves using a triple-
drug therapy regimen, including a proton pump inhibitor or PPI like omeprazole, and two antibiotics, which include clarithromycin plus either metronidazole or amoxicillin. This treatment helps eradicate the bacterial infection through different mechanisms of action.
Choice B rationale
While maintaining a high-fiber diet is generally beneficial for overall health, it is not specifically related to the management of H. pylori infection. The primary treatment for H. pylori is antibiotic therapy, not dietary changes.
Choice C rationale
Over-the-counter antacids can help to neutralize stomach acid and provide temporary relief from symptoms, but they do not treat the underlying H. pylori infection. Therefore, while they may be used as part of symptom management, they are not a primary treatment strategy.
Choice D rationale
Assisting the patient with proper hand hygiene is always important in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of infections. However, it is not specifically related to the management of H. pylori infection. The bacteria are typically contracted during childhood, and the exact modes of transmission are not fully understood.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme that is found in various tissues, including the liver. Elevated levels of AST can indicate liver damage or disease.
Choice B rationale
Albumin is a protein that is made by the liver. It helps keep fluid in the bloodstream so it doesn’t leak into other tissues. Low levels of albumin can indicate liver disease.
Choice C rationale
Lipase is an enzyme that is produced by the pancreas and used in the digestion of fats. It is not a marker of liver function.
Choice D rationale
Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme found mostly in the cells of the liver and kidney. Much like AST, high levels of ALT can indicate liver damage or disease.
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