Laxatives and Anti-Diarrheals Flashcards
1
Q
Define Constipation
A
- Infrequent passage of abnormally hard and dry stools • Two or less per week
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation
- Having to strain abnormally hard
2
Q
Why does the stool harden in the colon?
A
Because the longer in bowel = ↑ absorption of H2O, fluid, and electrolytes = hard stool
3
Q
Lifestyle changes to relieve constipation
A
- Fiber - ↑ bulk in BM - higher need for feeling sense of BM
- Fluid intake
- Physical activity - promotes peristalsis
4
Q
Geriatric Considerations for Geriatrics
A
- Changes in dietary habits - ↓ appetite/thirst, chewing/ swallowing problems
- Decreased activity - bowel muscles weaken/lose muscle tone
- Chronic illness may delay evacuation - chronic conditions, medications (opioids)
5
Q
Which laxative is bulk forming?
A
psyllium mucilloid
6
Q
Describe key points of psyllium mucilloid.
A
- ↑ fecal mass - desents bowel
- prevent & long term management of constipation
- slow onset - can be taken regularly
- soft formed BM in 12-24 hours
7
Q
What is the Nursing Implication for psyllium mucilloid
A
- Mixture congeals - turns gel like, make sure it’s mixed with enough water
- Drink psyllium to drink their other pills.
8
Q
Should an impacted patient be given psyllium mucilloid?
A
No, it has a slow onset.
9
Q
T/F: psyllium mucilloid is a good laxative to use for chronic constipation.
A
True
10
Q
Which laxative is an emollient?
A
docusate sodium
11
Q
Characteristics of docusate sodium
A
- Promotes H2O into stool
* Prevents constipation/straining
