Digestive/ Gastrointestinal

Question 1

Docusate sodium (PO)

Answer 1

Indication: Constipation, Prevent opioid induced constipation

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, Abdominal pain

Side Effects: Diarrhea, abdominal cramps

Adverse Reactions: Electrolyte imbalance, urinary discoloration, rash

Nursing Considerations: Determine adequate fluid intake, exercise and diet before administration

Patient Teachings: Laxative should be used for short-term therapy. Teach patient other forms of bowel regulation including increase fluid intake.

Question 2

Famotidine (PO)

Answer 2

Indication: Management of GERD, Acid indigestion, Active duodenal ulcers/ benign gastric ulcers

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, Patients with phenylketonuria

Side Effects: Diarrhea, drowsiness, dizziness

Adverse Reactions: Arrhythmias, Agranulocytosis, Aplastic anemia

Nursing Considerations: Assess for abdominal pain, Look for blood in emesis/stool/gastric aspirate

Patient Teachings: Take course exactly as directed even if you are feeling better, May cause drowsiness so avoid driving, Avoid alcohol

Question 3

Ondansetron (PO)

Answer 3

Indication: Prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy/ radiation therapy

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, Use with apomorphine

Side Effects: Diarrhea, constipation

Adverse Reactions: Serotonin syndrome, Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Nursing Considerations: Monitor for S/S of serotonin syndrome, Assess for rash periodically

Patient Teachings: Take medication exactly as directed, call HCP if you have irregular heartbeat, S/S of serotonin syndrome, involuntary movement of eyes/face/limbs

Question 4

Pantoprazole (IV)

Answer 4

Indication: GERD

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity

Side Effects: Diarrhea, flatulence

Adverse Reactions: C. Diff-associated diarrhea, Bone fractures, Systemic lupus erythmetosis

Nursing Considerations: Assess routinely for epigastric and abdominal pain

Patient Teachings: Take medication as directed, Notify HCP is fever and diarrhea develop