GI Motility Flashcards
What adverse effect should the nurse monitor for when administering bisacodyl?
Diarrhea and abdominal cramping
Common adverse effects of chemical stimulant laxatives like bisacodyl include diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and nausea.
In which patients should the nurse be cautious when administering magnesium sulfate?
Renal insufficiency
Magnesium is excreted by the kidneys, so caution is required in patients with renal insufficiency.
Which nursing intervention is most important for a patient taking metoclopramide?
Assess for extrapyramidal symptoms
The risk of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) and abnormal movements is a key consideration.
What should be done when administering docusate as a lubricant laxative?
Administer with a full glass of water
All laxatives should be administered with a full glass of water and not chewed.
True or False: Opioid antagonist laxatives can be used long-term without concern.
False
Opioid antagonist drugs block opioid effects on the GI tract but should not be used long-term without monitoring.
When administering bulk-forming laxatives, what should the nurse encourage?
Plenty of water
It’s essential to ensure adequate fluid intake with bulk-forming laxatives.
What should a nurse monitor for in a patient taking loperamide for diarrhea?
Constipation
Loperamide can cause constipation, which is a key adverse effect to monitor.
What is a contraindication for using chemical stimulant laxatives?
Acute abdominal disorders
Conditions like appendicitis, bowel obstruction, diverticulitits, ulcerative colitis, and appendicitis
When administering lactulose, which patients should the nurse be cautious with?
Diabetes
Lactulose contains sugar, requiring caution in patients with diabetes.
What should a patient taking metoclopramide be monitored for?
Increased blood sugar
Metoclopramide can alter glucose metabolism, necessitating monitoring.
What is a key fact about mineral oil as a lubricant laxative?
It can interfere with vitamin absorption
Frequent use of mineral oil can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
What should the nurse assess for when using polyethylgene glycol?
Potential seizure risk
Osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol have a caution related to seizures.
When should metoclopramide be administered in relation to meals?
At least 15 minutes before each meal
This timing helps maximize the medication’s effectiveness.
What is a critical nursing consideration for gastrointestinal stimulants?
Monitor extrapyramidal symptoms
EPS monitoring is essential for patients receiving gastrointestinal stimulants.
What should be monitored when using opioid antagonist laxatives?
Opioid withdrawal symptoms
Potential withdrawal effects are a key consideration for opioid antagonists.
What should a patient taking psyllium be instructed to do?
Drink plenty of water
Adequate water intake is crucial for effective use of psyllium.
What is a potential drug interaction with magnesium-based laxatives?
Neuromuscular junction blockers
Magnesium-based laxatives can interact with neuromuscular junction blockers, increasing toxicity.
When administering glycerin suppositories, where should they be inserted?
High into the rectum
Proper insertion is crucial for effectiveness; patients should be encouraged to hold it in.
What should a patient taking bismuth subsalicylate be monitored for?
Constipation
Constipation is a potential adverse effect of bismuth subsalicylate.
What is a nursing intervention for chemical stimulant laxatives?
Don’t chew tablets
Tablets should not be chewed and should be taken with a full glass of water.
What should a patient taking naloxegol be assessed for?
Opioid withdrawal symptoms
Monitoring for withdrawal symptoms is critical when using opioid antagonists.
What is a contraindication for bulk-forming laxatives?
Acute abdominal disorders
Conditions like appendicitis and bowel obstruction are contraindications.
What should the nurse be aware of when using osmotic laxatives?
Potential muscle weakness
Osmotic laxatives can lead to electrolyte imbalances, causing muscle weakness.
What should be monitored in a patient taking metoclopramide for diabetic gastroparesis?
Altered glucose metabolism
The drug can significantly affect glucose metabolism in diabetic patients.
