12 Questions
What is the primary mechanism of action of antacids?
Neutralizing the gastric acid that has already been secreted
What is a common side effect of Magnesium hydroxide?
Diarrhea
Why should antacids be used with caution in patients with renal impairment?
Because they can exacerbate existing kidney disease
What is a consideration for diabetic patients taking antacids?
The high sugar content of some antacids
What is the primary difference between antacids and histamine blockers?
Their mechanism of action
What is a priority teaching issue for patients taking antacids?
The need to monitor for signs of constipation or diarrhea
Why is sodium bicarbonate not recommended for heart patients?
It can lead to hypertension and edema due to high sodium content
What is the primary mechanism of action of histamine blockers?
Blocking histamine, which normally stimulates HCL acid secretion
What is the primary difference between proton pump inhibitors and histamine blockers?
Proton pump inhibitors suppress gastric acid secretion, while histamine blockers block histamine
What is the recommended order of treatment for constipation?
Try bulky-forming agents first, then cathartics
What is the primary mechanism of action of stimulant irritants?
They increase gut motility and fluid movement into the intestine
What is the primary indication for saline laxative cathartics?
Preparing the gut for X-rays or bowel surgery
Study Notes
GI Drugs
- Antacids: neutralize gastric acid that has already been secreted
- Examples: Aluminum hydroxide (e.g., Maalox), Magnesium hydroxide (e.g., Mylanta), Calcium carbonate (e.g., Tums), Sodium bicarbonate (e.g., Baking Soda)
Nursing Implications for Antacids
- Considerations: taste, cost, sodium content, potential interactions with other drugs
- Aluminum hydroxide may cause constipation, while Magnesium salts may cause diarrhea
- Use with caution in renal patients and diabetics
- Sodium bicarbonate is contraindicated in heart patients due to high sodium content
Histamine Blockers
- Prototypes: Cimetidine (Tagamet), Ranitidine (Zantac), Famotidine (Pepcid)
- Action: block histamine, which stimulates HCL acid secretion
- Dosage forms: oral, parenteral (IV infusions q 6 hours)
- Therapy duration: often 6-8 weeks to heal ulcer
- Side effects: few, including headache
Proton Pump Inhibitors
- Action: suppress gastric acid secretion by blocking H+ and enzyme system
- Examples: Prevacid (Lansoprazole), Prilosec (Omeprazole)
- Prevent ulcers
Laxatives; Cathartics; Antidiarrheal
- Two groups: relieve constipation and treat diarrhea
- Factors affecting GI motility: exercise, diet, stress, travel, fluid intake
- Incorrect use of OTC drugs for constipation or as a weight loss aid
Categories of Laxatives
- Bulk-forming laxatives: Psyllium (e.g., Metamucil), bran
- Saline laxative cathartics: Milk of Magnesia, Phosphosoda enemas
- Hyperosmotic agents: glycerin (glycerin suppository)
- Stimulant irritants: Biscodyl (Dulcolax), Castor Oil
- Stool-softening agents
This quiz covers antacids, their examples, and nursing implications, including considerations and precautions. Learn about the effects of aluminum hydroxide, magnesium salts, and more.
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