A nurse is caring for a patient admitted with a lower respiratory infection.

After assisting the patient to bed and applying the prescribed oxygen, which finding would help the nurse evaluate the effectiveness of the nursing care?

Choice A rationale
Sorbitol is a type of sugar alcohol used as a sweetener in many diet foods. It is also used in certain medications as a laxative to relieve constipation. However, it is not typically associated with liver failure and would not likely be questioned by the nurse in this context.
Choice B rationale
Lactulose is a type of sugar that is broken down in the large intestine into mild acids that draw water into the intestine, which then helps soften the stools. It is often used to treat constipation and is also used to reduce high blood ammonia levels in patients with liver disease. It would not typically be questioned by the nurse for a patient with chronic liver failure.
Choice C rationale
Neomycin is an antibiotic that is used to reduce the amount of ammonia produced by bacteria in the intestines. High levels of ammonia can cause hepatic encephalopathy, a serious complication of liver disease. Therefore, neomycin can be beneficial for patients with chronic liver failure and would not likely be questioned by the nurse.
Choice D rationale
Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is a common over-the-counter medication used to relieve pain and reduce fever. However, high doses or long-term use of acetaminophen can cause liver damage. In fact, acetaminophen overdose is a common cause of acute liver failure. Therefore, the nurse should question an order for acetaminophen for a patient with chronic liver failure.

Choice A rationale
A DNR prescription does not mean that the patient will only receive pain medication for their treatments. A DNR order simply means that if the patient’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing, medical staff will not attempt resuscitation3.
Choice B rationale
A DNR prescription does not necessarily limit a patient’s current treatment regimen. It only specifies that CPR will not be performed in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Other treatments can still be provided based on the patient’s wishes and the medical team’s recommendations3.
Choice C rationale
A DNR prescription allows a patient to continue with their current treatment regimen. The DNR order only comes into effect if the patient’s heart stops or they stop breathing3.
Choice D rationale
While a DNR prescription may limit the ability to receive invasive procedures in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, it does not limit other forms of treatment. The patient can still receive treatments that align with their goals of care3.