A client with liver cirrhosis is at risk of developing esophageal varices. Which medication should the nurse expect to be prescribed to reduce the risk of bleeding from these varices?

A) While lactulose can be taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort, its effectiveness is not necessarily enhanced by taking it with meals. The timing and dosage of lactulose should be based on the healthcare provider's instructions.

B) Lactulose is a medication commonly used to manage hepatic encephalopathy in clients with liver cirrhosis. It works by reducing ammonia levels in the blood by promoting the excretion of ammonia through the stool. The nurse should instruct the client to expect one to two soft bowel movements per day while on lactulose, as this indicates the medication's effectiveness in removing ammonia from the body.

C) Lactulose is not associated with fluid overload, and there is no need to limit fluid intake while taking the medication. In fact, adequate hydration is important in clients with liver cirrhosis.

D) Lactulose is not known to significantly affect blood glucose levels, and there is no specific need for the client to monitor blood glucose levels while taking this medication.

A) This statement is incorrect. Chronic hepatitis C infection is a significant risk factor for liver cirrhosis, and individuals with this infection require regular monitoring and appropriate medical management to prevent or delay the progression of cirrhosis.

B) While hepatitis D co-infection can worsen the course of chronic hepatitis B or C infection, it does not diminish the significance of hepatitis C infection as a risk factor for liver cirrhosis.

C) While chronic hepatitis B infection is also a known risk factor for liver cirrhosis, the client's history of hepatitis C infection is more relevant to the risk of developing cirrhosis in this case.

D) Chronic hepatitis C infection is a well-established risk factor for liver cirrhosis. The hepatitis C virus causes persistent inflammation in the liver, leading to liver cell damage and scarring (fibrosis). Over time, this fibrosis can progress to cirrhosis, which is the advanced stage of liver damage.