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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A: Cooking in a stainless steel skillet does not increase the amount of iron in food. Iron skillets are known to increase iron content in food, not stainless steel.
B: Drinking iced tea with meals can actually decrease iron absorption. Tea contains tannins, which bind to iron and can inhibit its absorption.
C: Fish and poultry are indeed primary sources of heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the body than non-heme iron found in plant sources.
D: Drinking orange juice with iron supplements can increase absorption. The vitamin C in orange juice enhances the absorption of iron.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Raw celery and tomatoes are not recommended in the early postoperative period following gastric bypass surgery due to their high fiber content, which may be difficult to tolerate.
B. Drinking at least 100 ounces of fluids per day may be excessive and can increase the risk of complications such as dumping syndrome in the early postoperative period following gastric bypass surgery. Fluid intake should be carefully monitored and follow the healthcare provider's recommendations.
C. Consuming liquids or pureed foods in the early postoperative period following gastric bypass surgery allows the gastrointestinal tract time to heal and adjust to the changes from the surgery. This statement indicates an understanding of the appropriate dietary progression after surgery.
D. The amount of protein intake may vary depending on individual factors and should be guided by the healthcare provider's recommendations. However, focusing solely on protein intake does not address the need for a gradual dietary progression in the early postoperative period.
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