A client with hepatic encephalopathy is receiving lactulose. Which assessment provides the nurse with the nest information to evaluate the client’s therapeutic response to the drug?
Fingerstick glucose.
Serum electrolytes and ammonia.
Stool color and character.
Serum hepatic enzymes.
The Correct Answer is B
Lactulose is a medication commonly used in the management of hepatic encephalopathy. It works by reducing the absorption of ammonia in the gut, which is a toxin that can accumulate in the blood in patients with liver dysfunction.
Monitoring serum electrolytes and ammonia levels can help the nurse evaluate the effectiveness of lactulose therapy. Elevated ammonia levels can indicate that the medication is not effectively reducing ammonia absorption and may require adjustment in dose or frequency. Additionally, monitoring electrolyte levels can help detect any imbalances that may occur because of lactulose therapy.
Fingerstick glucose levels (option A) are not relevant to evaluating the therapeutic response of lactulose in hepatic encephalopathy.
Stool color and character (option C) may be monitored to assess the side effects of lactulose, such as diarrhea, but are not the best assessments to evaluate therapeutic response.
Serum hepatic enzymes (option D) may be useful in assessing the severity of liver disease but are not the best assessment to evaluate the therapeutic response of lactulose in hepatic encephalopathy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Sumatriptan succinate is a medication used to treat migraine headaches by narrowing blood vessels in the brain. It is important to determine if the client has a history of coronary artery disease before administering the initial dose because the medication can also cause narrowing of the coronary arteries and potentially lead to a heart attack or other cardiac events.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (a), seasonal allergic rhinitis (c), and irritable bowel syndrome (d) are not directly related to the use of sumatriptan succinate. However, it is still important to consider the client's medical history and overall health status when prescribing or administering any medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Metoclopramide is a medication used to treat nausea and vomiting, including those caused by chemotherapy. However, it has a potential adverse effect of causing extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), which are involuntary movements of the body, such as muscle spasms, twitching, or restlessness. These symptoms can be distressing for patients and can interfere with their quality of life. EPS can be a sign of tardive dyskinesia, a serious and irreversible neurological disorder.
Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to monitor the client for any signs of EPS and report them immediately to the healthcare provider to prevent further complications. Unusual irritability, diarrhea, and nausea are also potential adverse effects of metoclopramide, but they are not as concerning as EPS.
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.