Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN) Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Lactulose is commonly used to treat liver failure because it helps alleviate a condition known as hepatic encephalopathy, which is a decline in brain function that occurs as a result of severe liver disease. Liver failure can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the blood, particularly ammonia, which can negatively affect the brain.

Lactulose works as a synthetic sugar that is not absorbed in the intestine. Instead, it is metabolized by bacteria in the colon, producing organic acids that lower the pH of the colon. This acidic environment helps convert ammonia into ammonium, which is less readily absorbed into the bloodstream, thereby helping to reduce blood ammonia levels. By facilitating the expulsion of ammonia through increased bowel movements, lactulose effectively mitigates the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy.

The other medications listed serve different purposes: Metformin is typically used to manage diabetes, omeprazole is utilized for conditions related to excess stomach acid, and aspirin is an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever that doesn't address the specific issues associated with liver failure. Thus, lactulose stands out as the appropriate choice for managing the complications arising from liver failure.