Patient Data

Exhibits

Mark whether the assessment finding represents a therapeutic result of the lactulose administered, a nontherapeutic side effect, or an unrelated finding. Each row must have one option selected.

Large, liquid stool: Lactulose is prescribed to treat constipation by drawing water into the bowel and promoting a bowel movement. A large, liquid stool indicates that the medication has effectively relieved the client's postoperative constipation.

Abdomen soft and flat: Before receiving lactulose, the client had a distended abdomen. A soft, flat abdomen afterward shows that bowel motility improved and gas or stool buildup has decreased, reflecting therapeutic action.

Blood pressure 120/68 mm Hg: Lactulose does not significantly affect blood pressure. A normal blood pressure reading is a positive finding but is unrelated to the expected outcomes or side effects of lactulose therapy.

Drowsiness: Drowsiness is not an intended or expected effect of lactulose. It may result from opioid use (morphine) rather than the lactulose itself, but since it impacts the client's alertness, it is considered a nontherapeutic side effect here.

Heart rate 62 beats/minute: Lactulose has no direct pharmacologic impact on heart rate. A heart rate of 62 beats per minute is within acceptable limits for many adults and is unrelated to the administration of lactulose.

Pain rating of 2 on a 0 to 10 scale: Pain control relates to the administration of morphine and other analgesics, not to lactulose. Therefore, a lower pain score reflects effective analgesia but is not linked to lactulose therapy.

Cramping: Cramping can occur with lactulose because it increases bowel motility and draws fluid into the intestines. Although mild cramping is expected, it is still classified as a nontherapeutic side effect because it can cause client discomfort.