An agitated, confused client with hepatic encephalopathy has just received a dose of lactulose (Chronulac). The nurse determines this medication has been effective if the client:
1. Becomes more alert and cooperative.
2. Has one formed stool per day.
3. Is able to breathe better.
4. Asks for less pain medication.
Becomes more alert and cooperative.
Rationale: Lactulose decreases the ammonia content in the blood. Lactulose is given until the client has two to three loose stools per day. The hepatic encephalopathy client may have problems with breathing due to ascites, but lactulose will not impact this. Lactulose will not impact the amount of pain medication the client requests.
You might also like to view...
The nurse is accepting care of an adult patient who has been experiencing severe and intractable pain
When reviewing the patient's medication administration record, the nurse notes the presence of gabapentin (Neurontin). The nurse is justified in suspecting what phenomenon in the etiology of the patient's pain? A) Neuroplasticity B) Misperception C) Psychosomatic processes D) Neuropathy
In providing nursing management to a client post–varicose vein surgery, the nurse would include which of the following teaching measures? Select all that apply
A) Exercise B) Cool compresses C) Elastic stockings D) Lower the extremities. E) Stand rather than sit. F) Take warm showers in the morning.
During a follow-up visit, a female client who underwent a mastectomy asks the nurse if she can work in her backyard or at least do some household work. Which of the following advice should the nurse give the client?
A) Avoid working altogether. B) Wear gloves and protective clothing to avoid any injuries. C) Increase the frequency of follow-up visits if she works. D) Avoid working in the backyard but do some household chores.
The nurse admits a patient to the emergency department who complains of dizziness, light-headedness, and a pulsating headache. Further assessment reveals a blood pressure of 82/60 and palpitations
The patient's friends state that "he was experimenting with poppers." The nurse should plan to administer which of the following medications? a. Diazepam (Valium) b. Naloxone (Narcan) c. Haloperidol (Haldol) d. Methylene blue and supplemental oxygen