Practice Question
A client has developed hepatic encephalopathy secondary to cirrhosis and is receiving care on the medical unit. The client's current medication regimen includes lactulose four times daily. What desired outcome should the nurse relate to this pharmacologic intervention?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Two to three soft bowel movements daily
Rationale:
🟦 Lactulose lowers ammonia levels, which improves cognitive function in hepatic encephalopathy.
🟦 It traps ammonia in the gut and removes it by increasing stool frequency.
🟦 The therapeutic target is 2–3 soft stools per day, which indicates effective ammonia clearance.
🟦 More stools can cause dehydration; fewer stools allow ammonia to accumulate.
🟦 Monitoring stool frequency ensures dosage effectiveness and prevents complications.
❌ Incorrect Answers
Increased appetite
❌ Not an expected effect of lactulose.
Absence of blood or mucus
❌ Not related to hepatic encephalopathy treatment.
No nausea/vomiting
❌ GI symptoms may persist; not the primary goal.
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This question is from Examplify Exam IV Fall 25 which contains 49 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: Examplify Exam(s)
- Domain: Medical-Surgical
- Answer Choices: 4