A patient with a history of chronic alcohol abuse has been admitted to the unit with cirrhosis. Upon review of the patient's laboratory test results, the nurse notes that the patient's ammonia level is elevated at 218 mcg/dL. What medication should the nurse prepare to administer?

Choice A reason:
Abdominal ultrasound and chest X-ray are not the first-line tests for a patient presenting with these symptoms. While they can be useful in assessing certain conditions, the priority in this case is to rule out cardiac causes, especially given the symptoms that could indicate a cardiac event.

Choice B reason:
Testing the acidity of gastric contents and assessing the throat is not relevant for the initial evaluation of these symptoms. While gastrointestinal issues can present with similar symptoms, the first step should be to rule out more serious cardiac causes.

Choice C reason:
Electrocardiogram (EKG) and serum troponin levels are the correct answer. These tests are critical in assessing cardiac function and identifying potential myocardial infarction or other cardiac issues. Given the patient's symptoms, which can be indicative of a cardiac event, these tests are prioritized to rule out any immediate cardiac threats.

Choice D reason:
Abdominal X-ray and colonoscopy are not appropriate first-line tests in this scenario. While they may be necessary later to investigate gastrointestinal issues, the primary concern given the patient's symptoms is to rule out cardiac events with an EKG and serum troponin levels.

Choice A reason:
Nonadherence to the antiviral regimen could result in suboptimal control of the HIV infection, but it is not typically associated with symptoms of increased hunger, thirst, and frequent urination. Therefore, this choice does not explain the patient's symptoms.
Choice B reason:
An allergic reaction might cause a variety of symptoms, such as rash, itching, or swelling, but it would not typically cause increased hunger, thirst, and frequent urination. This choice is incorrect as it does not align with the presented symptoms.
Choice C reason:
Pancreatic infiltration by HIV is a rare and serious condition that can lead to various metabolic complications, but it is not a common cause of the specific symptoms described (increased hunger, thirst, and frequent urination). This choice is not consistent with the patient's symptoms.
Choice D reason:
Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, can cause symptoms like increased hunger, thirst, and frequent urination. These symptoms are indicative of diabetes, which can be a side effect of some antiviral medications, particularly protease inhibitors used in HIV treatment. Therefore, this choice accurately reflects the patient's symptoms and is the correct answer.