Question

A client with cirrhosis of the liver asks the nurse about the purpose of taking lactulose. How should the nurse respond?

A
"It is used to control portal hypertension."
B
"It helps to reduce ammonia levels in your blood." Correct Answer (Blank)
C
"It helps to regenerate your liver."
D
"It adds dietary fiber to your diet."

Answer 1

Lactulose is used to reduce ammonia levels in the blood of a client with cirrhosis of the liver.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lactulose is used to help reduce ammonia levels in the blood of a client with cirrhosis of the liver. Cirrhosis can lead to portal hypertension, which makes it difficult for blood from the intestines to flow through the liver and return to the heart. The liver is responsible for detoxifying ammonia and converting it into urea, which is then excreted by the kidneys. However, in patients with cirrhosis, this detoxification process may not function properly. Lactulose works by increasing the excretion of ammonia in the stools, helping to lower blood ammonia levels and prevent hepatic encephalopathy.