Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which statement by the nurse is appropriate during the teaching session about bisacodyl (Dulcolax)?
Which statement by the nurse is appropriate during the teaching session about bisacodyl (Dulcolax)?
- You can crush the laxative tablets for improved action.
- In a normal bowel pattern, a bowel movement occurs daily.
- Take the tablets with water, not milk or juice. (correct)
- This laxative is not known to cause dependence.
What potential problem should the nurse prevent when giving oral mineral oil as a laxative?
What potential problem should the nurse prevent when giving oral mineral oil as a laxative?
- Fecal impaction
- Lipid pneumonia (correct)
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Esophageal blockage
Why should a bulk-forming laxative be mixed with a full 8-ounce glass of water?
Why should a bulk-forming laxative be mixed with a full 8-ounce glass of water?
- The water acts as a lubricant to produce bowel movements.
- These laxatives may cause esophageal obstruction if taken with insufficient water. (correct)
- The water acts to stimulate bowel movements.
- The water will help to reduce the bulk of the intestinal contents.
Which medication or medication class will interact significantly with bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)?
Which medication or medication class will interact significantly with bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)?
Which drug is expected to be used to induce total cleansing of the bowel before a diagnostic procedure?
Which drug is expected to be used to induce total cleansing of the bowel before a diagnostic procedure?
What is an important teaching principle for a patient using a stimulant laxative like senna (Senokot) long-term?
What is an important teaching principle for a patient using a stimulant laxative like senna (Senokot) long-term?
What is the main difference between diphenoxylate with atropine (Lomotil) and loperamide (Imodium)?
What is the main difference between diphenoxylate with atropine (Lomotil) and loperamide (Imodium)?
Study Notes
Laxatives and Their Proper Use
- Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) should be administered with water only, as interactions with milk or juice can occur.
- All laxative tablets must be swallowed whole to avoid dependence, particularly with stimulant laxatives like bisacodyl.
- The standard for normal bowel movements is not strictly one per day; variability is normal.
Mineral Oil Laxatives
- Oral mineral oil can cause lipid pneumonia if aspirated into the respiratory tract, making aspiration a significant concern.
Bulk-Forming Laxatives
- Bulk-forming laxatives require intake of a full 8-ounce glass of water to prevent esophageal obstruction and fecal impaction.
- They increase water absorption, leading to bulkier intestinal contents and formed stools without significant systemic effects.
Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
- Co-administration of oral hypoglycemic drugs with bismuth subsalicylate can decrease the absorption of the hypoglycemics.
Total Bowel Cleansing
- Polyethylene glycol (GoLYTELY) is the preferred drug for total bowel cleansing before diagnostic or surgical procedures.
Long-Term Laxative Use
- Long-term use of stimulant laxatives like senna (Senokot) can lead to reduced bowel tone and dependency; daily bowel movements are not essential for bowel health.
Antidiarrheal Medications
- Diphenoxylate with atropine (Lomotil) may lead to physical dependence, while loperamide (Imodium) has not been associated with physical dependence.
- Both Lomotil and Imodium are administered orally, and the differentiation in pharmacological action does not imply quicker action for Lomotil.
Constipation Prevention
- Patients seeking to prevent constipation should inquire about safe laxative options appropriate for their needs.
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Description
This quiz covers essential information regarding different types of laxatives, their proper usage, and precautions to take. It includes details on bisacodyl, mineral oil laxatives, bulk-forming laxatives, and interactions with other medications. Test your knowledge and understanding of safe laxative practices.
