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Chapter 23: Problem 54

A client has cirrhosis of the liver with a new prescription for lactulose (Cephalac). Which indicates the drug is having the desired effect? A. The client is sleeping more B. An increase in bowel movements C. Hypoactive bowel sounds D. A generalized increase in bruising

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The desired effect of lactulose for a client with cirrhosis of the liver is an increase in bowel movements, as this indicates that lactulose is effectively reducing toxin levels in the blood and alleviating symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding cirrhosis of the liver and its complications

Cirrhosis of the liver is a late-stage liver disease characterized by the formation of scar tissue, which impairs liver function. One of the common complications of cirrhosis is hepatic encephalopathy, a decline in brain function due to the buildup of toxins in the bloodstream that the liver can no longer efficiently remove.
02

Understanding the role of lactulose in the treatment of cirrhosis

Lactulose is a synthetic, non-absorbable sugar that works by drawing water into the intestines and softening the stool, leading to an increase in bowel movements. This helps to reduce the amount of ammonia in the blood, as some of the toxins like ammonia pass through the stool.
03

Analyzing the provided options

We will now analyze the four options provided in the exercise. A. The client is sleeping more: This option does not indicate the desired effect of lactulose, as lactulose does not impact sleep directly. B. An increase in bowel movements: Lactulose works by increasing bowel movements, thereby reducing ammonia levels in the blood, which can alleviate symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy. C. Hypoactive bowel sounds: This option does not indicate the desired effect of lactulose, as lactulose is supposed to increase bowel movements, not decrease them. D. A generalized increase in bruising: This option is not related to the desired effect of lactulose, as lactulose does not affect bruising.
04

Identifying the correct answer

Based on our analysis of the provided options, we can conclude that the correct answer is: B. An increase in bowel movements, as this indicates that lactulose is effectively reducing toxin levels in the blood and alleviating symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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