A patient with hepatic encephalopathy is prescribed lactulose. Which statement shows correct understanding of the treatment?
Correct answer: B. I should expect several soft stools each day
- A. I should stop it whenever my stools become soft
- B. I should expect several soft stools each day
- C. I should restrict all fluids while taking this medicine
- D. I should take extra sedatives if confusion returns
Explanation
Lactulose lowers intestinal ammonia absorption and is adjusted to produce several soft stools daily, not severe diarrhoea. Stopping it, restricting fluids or using sedatives can worsen encephalopathy or cause complications.
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About Gastrointestinal and Liver Nursing
Covers nursing care for peptic ulcer disease, gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal obstruction, hepatitis, cirrhosis and portal hypertension. It includes nutrition, fluid and electrolyte management, abdominal assessment, gastrointestinal bleeding, ascites and hepatic encephalopathy, which must be distinguished from other causes of altered consciousness.
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