A client reports passing 2 to 3 small, hard stools per week since being placed on a low-residue diet three months ago. Which type of laxative should the nurse expect the healthcare provider to recommend first?
Emollient.
Osmotic.
Bulk-forming.
Stimulant.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Emollient: Emollient (stool softener) laxatives like docusate sodium help moisten stool but do not significantly increase stool volume or stimulate bowel movement. They are gentle but typically insufficient for long-term, low-frequency constipation.
B. Osmotic: Osmotic laxatives draw water into the bowel to promote peristalsis. They are effective but may cause electrolyte imbalances if used chronically. These are often reserved for when bulk-forming agents are ineffective.
C. Bulk-forming: Bulk-forming laxatives such as psyllium are typically the first-line recommendation for chronic constipation. They mimic dietary fiber by absorbing water, increasing stool bulk, and promoting regular bowel movements with minimal side effects.
D. Stimulant: Stimulant laxatives like senna or bisacodyl are stronger agents that promote bowel motility but can cause dependency if used long-term. They are not recommended as first-line therapy for chronic constipation related to diet.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Ask the client if she has any alcohol in the room at this time: This is an essential step in assessing for immediate safety and contraband that may impact her treatment plan, especially considering her symptoms and possible withdrawal risk.
B. Administer a PRN prescription for an antianxiety drug: This could mask symptoms of alcohol withdrawal or interact negatively with alcohol. Medication should be given only after thorough assessment and consultation.
C. Inform the family that they are enabling the client: While family education is important, using accusatory language like "enabling" can damage therapeutic relationships. A nonjudgmental, supportive approach is better.
D. Observe for signs to determine if client is inebriated: Monitoring for inebriation supports accurate clinical assessment and decisions about withdrawal protocols, safety, and medication timing.
E. Schedule a conference with the client and family members: A joint meeting allows open discussion, identifies care goals, and promotes understanding and support from all parties involved.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E","G"]
Explanation
Rationale for Correct Findings:
- Balancing periods of activity with rest: This indicates effective self-management and understanding of a key principle in managing rheumatoid arthritis. Maintaining this balance helps prevent overexertion and joint flares while preserving mobility and function.
- Client reports pain as 1 to 2 on a 0 to 10 pain scale in bilateral hands: The reduction in pain from a previous score of 3 to 1-2 indicates a positive response to treatment. Pain reduction is a key marker of progress in managing rheumatoid arthritis, especially with the initiation of methotrexate.
- She is tolerating weekly medication without side effects: Tolerating methotrexate without side effects is a positive outcome. Methotrexate is a cornerstone treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, and its ability to be well-tolerated suggests good disease control.
- The client is pleased with the improvements: The client’s satisfaction with her treatment and the improvements in her condition demonstrate effective management of her rheumatoid arthritis and a positive response to the prescribed interventions.
Rationale for Incorrect Findings:
- She has continued to garden, but crocheting is too painful: The client’s inability to crochet due to pain suggests that joint function is still limited in certain fine motor activities. This shows that while some improvement has been made, the disease still affects specific functions.
- She recently attended a large family wedding and became fatigued quickly: Fatigue is common in RA and suggests that the client’s energy levels still need better management. Overexertion could indicate a need for better pacing between rest and activity to avoid exacerbating symptoms.
- She has noticed "heartburn" about an hour after using ibuprofen for pain relief: Heartburn is a common side effect of NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which could lead to gastrointestinal irritation. This issue requires attention, as it could progress to more serious gastrointestinal complications.
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