A nurse is caring for a patient on the medical unit. A client has developed hepatic encephalopathy secondary to cirrhosis. The client's current medication regimen includes lactulose four times daily. What desired outcome should the nurse relate to this pharmacologic intervention?

Two to three soft bowel movements daily

Significant increase in appetite and food intake

Absence of nausea and vomiting

Absence of blood or mucus in stool

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Lactulose works by reducing the absorption of ammonia in the intestines, a key factor in hepatic encephalopathy. The desired effect is two to three soft stools per day, which helps eliminate ammonia.
B. Lactulose does not directly affect appetite or food intake.
C. Although gastrointestinal symptoms may improve, lactulose is not used to treat nausea and vomiting.
D. Lactulose is not indicated for treating or preventing gastrointestinal bleeding or mucus in the stool.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Cardiac dysrhythmias are a serious complication of hypokalemia (potassium <3.5 mEq/L), especially in clients taking loop diuretics like furosemide, which increase potassium excretion. Monitoring heart rhythm is essential.
B. Hypoglycemia is not directly associated with low potassium or furosemide.
C. Seizures are more commonly linked to hyponatremia or severe hypocalcemia, not mild hypokalemia.
D. Neurogenic shock is typically caused by spinal cord injury, not by electrolyte imbalance.

A. A client who skips breakfast when the glucose reading is greater than 220 mg/dL (12.3 mmol/L) B. A client who never deviates from the prescribed dose of insulin C. A client who adheres closely to a meal plan and meal schedule D. A client who eliminates carbohydrates from the daily intake

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Skipping meals can lead to fluctuations in blood glucose and increase the risk of hypoglycemia, especially when insulin is still active.
B. Insulin dosing may need to be adjusted based on blood glucose levels, carbohydrate intake, and physical activity. Fixed dosing without adjustment can lead to poor control.
C. Adhering to a consistent meal plan and schedule helps maintain steady blood glucose levels and aligns insulin action with food intake, promoting better glucose control.
D. Eliminating carbohydrates is not recommended. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, and the focus should be on consistent, healthy carb intake rather than complete elimination.

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A nurse is caring for a patient on the medical unit. A client has developed hepatic encephalopathy secondary to cirrhosis. The client's current medication regimen includes lactulose four times daily. What desired outcome should the nurse relate to this pharmacologic intervention?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse in a provider's office is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who takes furosemide for hypertension. The nurse notes that the client's potassium level is 3.3 mEq/L. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse is caring for diabetic clients. Which of the following clients with type 1 diabetes is most likely to experience adequate glucose control?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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