A client with liver cirrhosis is prescribed lactulose to manage hepatic encephalopathy. What should the nurse instruct the client about taking this medication?
"Take lactulose with meals to enhance its effectiveness."
"Expect one to two soft bowel movements per day while on lactulose."
"Limit your fluid intake while on lactulose to prevent fluid overload."
"Monitor your blood glucose levels frequently while taking lactulose."
The Correct Answer is B
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder characterized by excessive iron absorption from the diet, leading to the accumulation of iron in various organs, including the liver. In individuals with hemochromatosis, the excess iron can cause liver cell injury and lead to cirrhosis over time.
B) Wilson's disease is a genetic disorder that causes impaired copper metabolism, leading to copper accumulation in the liver and other organs. While it can lead to liver damage, it is not associated with elevated iron levels.
C) Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and liver. It can lead to liver disease, but it does not cause elevated iron levels.
D) Primary biliary cholangitis is an autoimmune liver disease that primarily affects the small bile ducts within the liver. While it can lead to liver damage and cirrhosis, it is not associated with elevated iron levels.
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