A client has been administered lactulose for several days.
Which therapeutic response should the nurse expect for a client with hepatic encephalopathy?

Improved mental status.

Increase in urine output.

Reduction in number of liquid stools.

Ability to ambulate independently.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

Lactulose directly addresses the primary cause of hepatic encephalopathy, which is the accumulation of ammonia in the blood. Ammonia is a neurotoxin that can impair brain function, leading to confusion, lethargy, and even coma. Lactulose works by trapping ammonia in the colon, where it can be safely excreted in the stool. This decrease in ammonia levels in the blood allows for the improvement of mental status.

Studies have consistently shown that lactulose therapy can significantly improve mental function in patients with hepatic encephalopathy. This improvement is often seen within a few days of starting treatment.

The nurse should assess the client's mental status regularly to monitor for improvement. This assessment should include evaluating the client's level of consciousness, orientation, attention, memory, and speech.

Improved mental status is a critical therapeutic goal in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. It allows patients to regain their independence and participate more fully in their care.

Choice B rationale:

While lactulose can cause diarrhea, which may lead to a slight increase in urine output, this is not the primary therapeutic response that the nurse should expect.

The increase in urine output is typically secondary to the diarrhea and does not directly reflect a reduction in ammonia levels or improvement in mental status.

Choice C rationale:

Lactulose does cause diarrhea, which is a common side effect of the medication.

However, the goal of lactulose therapy is not to reduce the number of liquid stools but rather to trap ammonia in the colon and promote its excretion.

The nurse should monitor the client's stool frequency and consistency to ensure that they are not experiencing excessive diarrhea, which could lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Choice D rationale:

While improved mental status may eventually lead to improved mobility, it is not the most immediate or direct therapeutic response that the nurse should expect from lactulose therapy.

The ability to ambulate independently is more likely to be a long-term goal of treatment, rather than an immediate response to lactulose.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Wild rice is naturally gluten-free. It is not a grain, but rather a semi-aquatic grass seed. It is safe for individuals with celiac disease to consume.

Wild rice is a good source of nutrients. It is high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, and it contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients can help to support overall health and well-being.

Wild rice can be a versatile ingredient in many dishes. It can be used in salads, soups, stews, pilafs, and even desserts.

Choice B rationale:

Oatmeal is not gluten-free. It is made from oats, which are a type of cereal grain that contains gluten. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid gluten, as it can trigger an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine.

Even small amounts of gluten can cause harm. Consuming even a small amount of oatmeal can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, and headache in individuals with celiac disease.

Long-term damage can occur. If individuals with celiac disease continue to consume gluten, it can lead to long-term health problems, such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, and infertility.

Choice C rationale:

Corn chips are typically gluten-free. However, it is important to check the label to be sure, as some brands may contain gluten- containing ingredients, such as wheat flour or barley malt.

Reading labels is essential. Individuals with celiac disease should always read food labels carefully to ensure that products are gluten-free.

Choice D rationale:

Potatoes are naturally gluten-free. They are a safe and healthy food choice for individuals with celiac disease.

Potatoes are a versatile and nutritious food. They are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and other nutrients.

A. Auscultate the patient's bowel sounds and measure the abdominal girth. B. Confirm that the patient is taking the medication one hour after meals. C. Notify the healthcare provider that the patient may need a change in dosage. D. Advise the patient that healing typically takes several weeks to occur.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Auscultating bowel sounds and measuring abdominal girth are not directly related to the management of erosive esophagitis and GERD symptoms. These actions are more pertinent to assessing gastrointestinal motility and distension, not the effectiveness of lansoprazole.

Choice B rationale: Lansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that should be taken before meals to reduce stomach acid production effectively. Confirming that the patient is taking the medication before meals could help optimize its efficacy but is not the most immediate step.

Choice C rationale: Notifying the healthcare provider about a potential need for a dosage change may be considered if symptoms persist. However, since healing with proton pump inhibitors can take several weeks, this action may be premature after only one week of use.

Choice D rationale: It is appropriate to inform the patient that healing of erosive esophagitis and symptom relief from GERD can take several weeks with lansoprazole. This education helps set realistic expectations and encourages adherence to the prescribed treatment.

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A client has been administered lactulose for several days.Which therapeutic response should the nurse expect for a client with hepatic encephalopathy?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is discussing dietary choices with a client who is newly diagnosed with celiac disease. Which menu choice by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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A client has been administered lactulose for several days.
Which therapeutic response should the nurse expect for a client with hepatic encephalopathy?