A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has cancer and is receiving opioids for pain relief. The client has a new prescription for docusate PO daily. When collecting data from the client, which of the following therapeutic effects of docusate should the nurse expect?
Relief from constipation
Relief from nausea
Decreased drowsiness
Decreased cancer pain
The Correct Answer is A
Docusate is a stool softener commonly used to relieve constipation. Opioid pain medications often cause constipation as a side effect by slowing down bowel movements. Docusate helps by increasing the amount of water absorbed by the stool, making it softer and easier to pass.
The other options mentioned are not the primary therapeutic effects of docusate: Relief from nausea: Docusate is not typically prescribed for relief from nausea. Antiemetic medications are used to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
Decreased drowsiness: Docusate does not directly affect drowsiness. Its main action is on the stool consistency, not on alertness or drowsiness.
Decreased cancer pain: Docusate is not prescribed for pain relief. Opioids are generally used to manage cancer pain in this scenario.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Furosemide is a loop diuretic that helps the body get rid of excess fluid by increasing urine output. However, it also promotes the loss of potassium in the urine, leading to a potential decrease in the body's potassium levels.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Measuring the output from an indwelling urinary catheter is within the scope of practice for an assistive personnel (AP). It involves a straightforward task that does not require specialized nursing knowledge or judgment.
The other tasks mentioned should not be delegated to an AP:
Administer an enteral feeding to a client who has a new gastrostomy tube: Administering enteral feedings requires specialized knowledge and training to ensure proper placement and administration. This task should be performed by a licensed nurse.
Evaluate a client's pain level 30 min after receiving an oral analgesic: Evaluating pain level and the effectiveness of pain management requires nursing assessment and judgment. This task should be performed by a licensed nurse.
Reinforce foot care to a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus: Providing education and reinforcing foot care to a client with a new diagnosis of diabetes requires
specialized knowledge about the disease and its management. This task should be performed by a licensed nurse.
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