A client has been administered lactulose for several days. Which therapeutic response should the nurse expect for a client with hepatic encephalopathy?
Improved mental status.
Reduction in number of liquid stools.
Ability to ambulate independently.
Increase in urine output.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Lactulose is a synthetic sugar used to treat hepatic encephalopathy by reducing the absorption of ammonia in the intestines. Ammonia is a neurotoxin that can impair mental status in patients with liver dysfunction. By decreasing ammonia levels, lactulose helps improve cognitive function and mental status in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice B rationale
While lactulose can cause diarrhea as a side effect, the therapeutic goal in hepatic encephalopathy is not to reduce the number of liquid stools but to lower ammonia levels in the blood. The reduction in ammonia levels leads to improved mental status, not necessarily a reduction in liquid stools.
Choice C rationale
The ability to ambulate independently is not a direct therapeutic response to lactulose. The primary goal of lactulose therapy in hepatic encephalopathy is to improve mental status by reducing ammonia levels, not to enhance physical mobility.
Choice D rationale
Lactulose does not have a direct effect on urine output. Its primary mechanism of action is to reduce ammonia absorption in the intestines, thereby improving mental status in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Isolating the client from others is the most important action to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This includes isolating the client from other clients, family, and healthcare workers not wearing proper PPE2.
Choice B rationale
Reporting the COVID-19 result to the local health department is important but not the immediate priority. Isolation takes precedence to prevent transmission.
Choice C rationale
Teaching the client to wear a mask, hand wash, and social distance is essential but secondary to immediate isolation.
Choice D rationale
Counseling family members to monitor for symptoms is important but not the immediate priority. Isolation of the client is the first step.
Correct Answer is ["B","D","F"]
No explanation