ADPIE Nursing Process Questions Related

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Marichu is admitted to the hospital because of hepatic failure and was prescribed with lactulose (Duphalac). The primary action of this drug is:

  • A. prevent constipation
  • B. decrease resident intestinal flora
  • C. increase intestinal peristalsis
  • D. prevent portal hypertension
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: decrease resident intestinal flora. Lactulose is a synthetic sugar that is not absorbed in the intestine and is used to decrease ammonia levels in patients with hepatic encephalopathy by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that help metabolize ammonia. This action helps reduce the toxic effects of ammonia on the brain.

A: prevent constipation - Lactulose may help with constipation, but its primary action in this scenario is to decrease resident intestinal flora.
C: increase intestinal peristalsis - Lactulose does not directly increase peristalsis.
D: prevent portal hypertension - Lactulose does not have a direct effect on preventing portal hypertension.