Questions and Answers
What is the therapeutic classification of Docusate Sodium?
What is the pharmacologic classification of Docusate Sodium?
What are the indications for the use of Docusate Sodium?
Prevention of constipation in patients who should avoid straining.
What is the primary action of Docusate Sodium?
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What are the contraindications and precautions associated with Docusate Sodium?
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Match the adverse reactions/side effects with their categories:
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What are the drug-drug interactions of Docusate Sodium?
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What is the recommended dosage for Docusate Sodium?
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What nursing implications should be considered when administering Docusate Sodium?
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Study Notes
Classification
- Therapeutic classification: Laxatives
- Pharmacologic classification: Stool softeners
Indications
- Oral use for prevention of constipation, particularly beneficial for patients who should avoid straining (e.g., post-myocardial infarction or rectal surgery)
Action
- Incorporates water into stool, resulting in softer fecal mass
- May promote electrolyte and water secretion into the colon
- Therapeutic effects include softening stool and assisting with its passage
Contraindications/Precautions
- Contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity, abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Use cautiously due to potential dependence from excessive or prolonged use; not suitable for situations requiring prompt results
Adverse Reactions/Side Effects
- Eye, ear, nose, throat (EENT): Throat irritation
- Gastrointestinal (GI): Mild cramps
- Dermatological: Rashes
Interactions
- No significant drug-drug interactions reported
Dosage
- Typical dosage ranges from 50-400 mg, divided into 1-4 doses daily
Nursing Implications
- Assessment: Monitor for abdominal distention, bowel sounds, and typical bowel patterns; evaluate stool color, consistency, and quantity
- Implementation: Administer with a full glass of water or juice; can be taken on an empty stomach for faster results; oral solution can be diluted to improve taste; avoid co-administration within 2 hours of other laxatives to prevent increased absorption
- Patient/Family Teaching: Emphasize the short-term use of laxatives; inform about potential electrolyte imbalance and dependence with long-term use; encourage dietary changes for bowel regulation; advise caution in patients with cardiac issues to avoid straining; prohibit use in the presence of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever; recommend not taking within 2 hours of other laxatives
Evaluation/Desired Outcome
- Expected outcome includes achieving a soft, formed bowel movement typically within 24-48 hours; rectal formulations can produce results within 2-15 minutes, with therapy potentially taking 3-5 days for full effect.
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Description
Test your knowledge of Docusate Sodium, or Colace, with these flashcards. The quiz covers therapeutic classifications, pharmacologic classifications, indications for use, and the action of the drug. Perfect for students and professionals in pharmacology and nursing.
