A nurse is providing patient education to a 55-year-old man who has been prescribed opioids for chronic back pain. Which of the following statements by the nurse is most appropriate when educating the patient about opioid-induced constipation?
"Opioid-induced constipation typically resolves on its own after a few weeks of treatment."
"Avoid physical activity to prevent exacerbating your back pain."
"Start taking stool softeners along with your opioid medication."
"You should wait to see if constipation develops before taking any specific measures."
The Correct Answer is C
A. "Opioid-induced constipation typically resolves on its own after a few weeks of treatment.": This is incorrect. Unlike other opioid side effects such as nausea or sedation, constipation does not typically resolve over time. It often persists and requires proactive management throughout opioid therapy.
B. "Avoid physical activity to prevent exacerbating your back pain.": While activity should be adjusted to the patient’s condition, light physical activity like walking actually helps stimulate bowel function. Complete avoidance of movement can worsen constipation.
C. "Start taking stool softeners along with your opioid medication.": This is the most appropriate advice. Prophylactic use of stool softeners or stimulant laxatives is recommended when initiating opioid therapy, as constipation is a nearly universal side effect due to slowed gastrointestinal motility.
D. "You should wait to see if constipation develops before taking any specific measures.": Waiting for constipation to develop can lead to discomfort and complications like fecal impaction. Preventive strategies should be started as soon as opioid treatment begins.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Avoid caffeine while taking this medication: Theophylline is a methylxanthine, similar in structure and effect to caffeine. Concurrent use can increase CNS stimulation and risk of side effects such as insomnia, tachycardia, and tremors. Avoiding caffeine helps prevent toxicity and unwanted stimulation.
B. Crush your extended-release tablet and mix it with apple sauce for easier consumption: Extended-release formulations should never be crushed, as this can lead to rapid absorption and potentially toxic drug levels. Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic index, and proper dosing is critical.
C. Take this medication as needed when you are not feeling well: Theophylline is a maintenance medication meant to be taken on a regular schedule. Taking it only as needed undermines its therapeutic effectiveness and can lead to inconsistent symptom control.
D. Consume a high-protein diet: While diet can influence drug metabolism, there is no routine recommendation for a high-protein diet with Theophylline. In fact, sudden dietary changes can alter its metabolism, requiring careful monitoring of serum drug levels.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. They inhibit the metabolism of alcohol in the liver: Benzodiazepines do not affect alcohol metabolism. Enzymes like alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase are responsible for metabolizing alcohol, and benzodiazepines have no role in this process.
B. They block the reuptake of dopamine in the central nervous system: This mechanism is more characteristic of stimulant drugs like cocaine or certain antidepressants. Benzodiazepines act primarily on GABAergic pathways and do not target dopamine reuptake.
C. They have no potential for abuse or dependence: Benzodiazepines carry a well-documented risk of dependence and abuse, especially with long-term use or in individuals with a history of substance use disorders. Their use in alcohol withdrawal is carefully managed due to this risk.
D. They enhance the effects of GABA in the central nervous system: Benzodiazepines potentiate GABA, the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, which helps to stabilize the CNS, reduce seizures, and manage agitation during alcohol withdrawal. This GABAergic action compensates for the decreased inhibitory tone seen in alcohol-dependent individuals during withdrawal.
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