A client is prescribed docusate sodium. What is the mechanism of action for the medication?
Draws water into the bowel movement by changing pressure within the intestines.
Acts on the nerves in the intestines to increase peristalsis to cause a bowel movement.
Coats the fecal material with water and lipids facilitating a bowel movement.
The medication absorbs liquid and swells to trigger a bowel movement.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Draws water into the bowel movement by changing pressure within the intestines: Osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol or lactulose, work by pulling water into the intestines through osmosis, not by softening stool through surfactant action like docusate.
B. Acts on the nerves in the intestines to increase peristalsis to cause a bowel movement: This is the mechanism of stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl or senna. These medications stimulate intestinal nerve endings, unlike docusate which softens stool without affecting nerve activity.
C. Coats the fecal material with water and lipids facilitating a bowel movement: Docusate sodium is a stool softener that reduces the surface tension of stool, allowing water and fats to penetrate and mix with the fecal mass, making it easier to pass without straining.
D. The medication absorbs liquid and swells to trigger a bowel movement: This describes bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium, which absorb water and expand in the intestines to stimulate peristalsis. Docusate does not have this swelling or bulking action.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Request an order for liver function tests to evaluate for hepatotoxicity: Bismuth subsalicylate is not associated with hepatotoxicity, and a black tongue is not indicative of liver dysfunction. There is no need for liver enzyme testing based solely on tongue discoloration.
B. Withhold the drug, because this is a sign of bismuth overdose: A black tongue is not a sign of overdose but rather a known harmless side effect due to the interaction of bismuth with sulfur in the saliva. Discontinuation is not warranted.
C. Assess further for signs of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding: Although bismuth can cause dark stools, which may resemble melena, a black tongue specifically is not an indication of GI bleeding. Unless there are other signs, further assessment is unnecessary here.
D. Reassure the patient that this is an expected side effect of this drug: Bismuth subsalicylate often causes temporary blackening of the tongue or stool due to its chemical composition. This effect is benign and reversible, and reassurance is the appropriate nursing response.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The risk of fecal incontinence: Fecal incontinence is not a common side effect of occasional or appropriate laxative use. It is more associated with misuse or overuse, especially of stimulant laxatives, but not the primary concern in initial client teaching.
B. The risk of becoming laxative-dependent: Chronic use of laxatives, especially stimulant types, can lead to dependency where the bowel loses its ability to function properly without pharmacologic stimulation. Clients should be taught to use laxatives only as a temporary aid.
C. The effect of laxatives on BUN and Creatinine: Laxatives generally do not directly affect kidney function markers such as BUN and creatinine unless used excessively and cause dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. This is not a primary point in general laxative education.
D. The underlying causes of constipation: While it's important to consider causes like low fiber intake or decreased mobility, this is part of the broader assessment rather than the key teaching point when initiating laxative use.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.