A client with cirrhosis is prescribed lactulose (Cephulac), which causes diarrhea. What should the nurse explain about this medication?
1. Prevents gastrointestinal bleeding
2. Reduces serum ammonia levels
3. Prevents constipation
4. Promotes excess fluid loss
Answer: 2
1. Lactulose does not prevent gastrointestinal bleeding.
2. Lactulose inhibits ammonia absorption from the bowel and is also an osmotic laxative, thereby promoting excretion of ammonia.
3. Lactulose does not prevent constipation.
4. Lactulose does not promote excess fluid loss.
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The nurse is working with a client who has recently been diagnosed with hypertension. Which of the following would be most therapeutic?
1. "What would you like to know about hypertension?" 2. "What concerns do you have about this diagnosis?" 3. "Do you know what hypertension is?" 4. "Does this diagnosis upset you?"
Which assessment techniques will the nurse use to evaluate the patient's cardiac output?
1. Inspection of color changes in the periphery 2. Strength of pulses 3. Percussion of heart borders 4. Auscultation of heart sounds 5. Pulse pressure determination
A general nursing action to help minimize a patient's psychological stress is:
A) Give detailed explanations of the plan of care. B) Inform the client that you are in charge of the situation and that there is no need to worry. C) Learn what is important and of concern to the patient. D) Discourage the patient from discussing unpleasant topics in order to decrease stress.
A patient is a candidate for a xenograft valve. The nurse emphasizes that this type of valve does not require anticoagulant therapy, but will require which intervention?
a. Replacement in about 7 to 10 years b. An exercise program to develop collateral circulation c. Daily temperature checks to watch for signs of rejection d. Frequent monitoring for pulmonary edema