The nurse is caring for a patient who has liver failure and is taking lactulose (Chronulac). Which of these laboratory data would indicate that the medication is having the desired effect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lactulose works by decreasing the amount of ammonia produced by the intestines, which is then excreted in the feces. Therefore, a decreased serum ammonia level would indicate that the medication is working as intended. An increased serum ammonia level would indicate that the medication is not working or that there is another issue causing elevated ammonia levels. The serum ALT level is not directly affected by lactulose, so it is not a reliable indicator of whether the medication is having the desired effect.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Has Liver