Which of the following indicate to the nurse that lactulose is effective for an older adult who has advanced liver cirrhosis?
The client has at least one stool per day.
The client denies nausea and vomiting (N/V).
The client's bilirubin level decreases.
The client is alert and oriented (A&Ox4).
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: While having at least one stool per day is a sign that lactulose is working, it does not directly indicate its effectiveness in reducing ammonia levels and improving mental status.
Choice B reason: Denial of nausea and vomiting is positive but is not a direct indicator of lactulose's effectiveness in treating hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice C reason: A decrease in bilirubin levels may be a positive sign, but it is not a direct indicator of lactulose's effectiveness in treating hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice D reason: The client being alert and oriented is a direct indicator that lactulose is effectively reducing ammonia levels and improving mental status, which is a key goal in treating hepatic encephalopathy associated with liver cirrhosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While it is useful to know the patient's current pain management strategies, new onset severe back pain could indicate a serious complication such as a spinal fracture or compression, which requires immediate attention.
Choice B reason: Reassuring the patient is not appropriate without further assessment, as new onset severe pain could signify a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
Choice C reason: Suggesting a back brace may be part of the management plan, but it should not precede notifying the healthcare provider of new severe pain.
Choice D reason: Notifying the healthcare provider is the correct action because new onset severe back pain in a patient with multiple myeloma could indicate a serious condition such as a spinal fracture or compression, which requires prompt evaluation and treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While blood pressure is important, hyperkalemia can cause cardiac dysrhythmias, making the pulse rate the first assessment to ensure the patient's immediate safety.
Choice B reason: Temperature is not directly affected by serum potassium levels and is not the priority in hyperkalemia.
Choice C reason: Respirations are less likely to be affected immediately by hyperkalemia compared to cardiac function.
Choice D reason: A high serum potassium level can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, so assessing the pulse rate is the most critical initial action.
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