A nurse is providing education to the partner of a client who has hepatic encephalopathy about a prescription for lactulose. Which of the following statements should the nurse make to the client's partner?
"There should be a decrease in the number of bowel movements with this medication."
"IV administration is the preferred route to give this medication."
"This medication will treat the infection that is causing the confusion."
"We will monitor the serum ammonia level to help determine if the medication is effective."
The Correct Answer is D
A. Lactulose is a laxative that works by reducing the absorption of ammonia in the colon, leading to increased bowel movements. Therefore, there should be an increase rather than a decrease in the number of bowel movements with this medication.
B. Lactulose is typically administered orally or rectally, not intravenously.
C. Lactulose does not treat infection; it helps reduce ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy by promoting bowel movements to expel ammonia.
D. Monitoring the serum ammonia level is essential in assessing the effectiveness of lactulose therapy. Reduction in serum ammonia levels indicates that the medication is working to reduce ammonia absorption in the colon.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["1680"]
Explanation
We'll use milliliters (mL) as the standard unit. There are approximately 30 mL in 1 ounce.
The client's intake from the coffee, beef broth, gelatin, and water is 8 oz + 8 oz + 6 oz + 24 oz, which equals 46 oz.
Converting ounces to milliliters, we get: 46 oz * 30 mL/oz = 1380 mL.
Adding the IV fluids, the total intake is 300 mL + 1380 mL = 1680 mL. The client's total intake is 1680 mL.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Urine output of 25 mL/hr may indicate inadequate renal perfusion or ongoing dehydration, which is not indicative of effective treatment for hypernatremia.
B. Fatigue is a nonspecific finding and does not specifically indicate the effectiveness of treatment for hypernatremia.
C. A firm grip bilaterally suggests adequate hydration and electrolyte balance, which would indicate effective treatment for hypernatremia.
D. Weight gain may occur with fluid retention, which could indicate overhydration rather than effective treatment for hypernatremia.
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