Laxatives

Question 1

Laxative Effect:

Answer 1

Refers to production of a soft, formed stool over a period of 1 or more days.

Question 2

Dietary fiber is very important for colonic function

Answer 2

absorbs water to soften feces and aid good bacteria to increase fecal mass

Question 3

What is Constipation?

Answer 3

Constipation is not determined by frequency of stool but of consistency

Assess patient prior to giving laxative. May need x-ray prior if there is a potential blockage!!

Question 4

constipation non pharm treatment

Answer 4

Increasing dietary fiber, fluid intake, and exercise

laxative briefly; Could induce labor. Are also excreted in breast milk.

Question 5

Laxative Classifications

Answer 5

osmotics
bulk forming
stimulants
surfactants

Question 6

Bulk-forming Laxatives

Answer 6

Nondigestible
Nonabsorbable
Swells in water, softens fecal mass, increases its bulk, and stimulates peristalsis

soft, formed stool after 1-3 days

Question 7

Psyllium

Methylcellulose

Answer 7

bulk laxatives
with a full glass of water
side effects: intestinal obstruction/impaction

Question 8

Surfactant Laxatives

Answer 8

Produce soft stool several days after; lowering surface tension, which facilitates the penetration of water; prevent constipation related to opioids;

docusate sodium
docusate calcium

Question 9

docusate sodium

docusate calcium

Answer 9

surfactant

full glass of water

Question 10

Stimulant Laxatives

Answer 10

semifluid stool within 6-12 hours; intestinal motility; the amount of water and electrolytes; opioid-induced constipation and slow tract

Bisacodyl oral & suppository
Senna

Question 11

Senna

Answer 11

urine yellow brown

Question 12

Osmotic Laxatives

Answer 12

empty the bowel for surgery or diagnostic procedures; not for renal fail pt;

magnesium salts (hydroxide citrate sulfate) 
polyethylene glycol

Question 13

polyethylene glycol side effects

Answer 13

Dehydration
Hypermagnesemia
Hypertension
CHF exacerbation