A patient with alcoholism and chronic liver failure is admitted to the medical unit. He is confused and has an elevated serum ammonia level. What laxative will the nurse administer to lower the serum ammonia level?

A) Docusate sodium (Colace)
B) Polyethylene glycol–electrolyte solution (NuLYTELY)
C) Lactulose (Cephulac)
D) Sorbitol


C
Feedback:
Lactulose decreases production of ammonia in the intestine. Lactulose is a disaccharide that is not absorbed from the GI tract. It is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy. Docusate sodium only provides stool softening and has no effect on serum ammonia levels. Polyethylene glycol–electrolyte solution (NuLYTELY) is not used to decrease serum ammonia. Sorbitol is not used to decrease serum ammonia.

Nursing

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