What is the mechanism of action of a stimulant laxative?
Lubricates the intestinal wall and softens stool
Draws water into the bowel to facilitate the passage of feces.
Increases bulk and stimulates peristalsis.
Irritates the intestine directly, promoting peristalsis and evacuation.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Lubricates the intestinal wall and softens stool: This describes the action of lubricant laxatives, such as mineral oil, not stimulant laxatives.
B. Draws water into the bowel to facilitate the passage of feces: This describes osmotic laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol or lactulose.
C. Increases bulk and stimulates peristalsis: This describes bulk-forming laxatives, like psyllium, which absorb water and increase stool size.
D. Irritates the intestine directly, promoting peristalsis and evacuation: This is the correct mechanism for stimulant laxatives, such as bisacodyl and senna. They stimulate the nerve endings in the intestinal lining, leading to increased bowel movement activity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Caries: While xerostomia can increase the risk of dental caries, saliva substitutes are not a direct treatment for cavities.
B. Xerostomia: This condition is directly treated with saliva substitutes to provide moisture and lubrication.
C. Halitosis: Saliva substitutes may indirectly help with bad breath but are not a direct treatment.
D. Mucositis: This involves inflammation of the mucous membranes, typically managed with pain relief and protective agents, not saliva substitutes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Perforation: A temperature of 102.4° F and abdominal rigidity are suggestive of peritonitis, which is a potential complication of diverticulosis. Perforation of a diverticulum can lead to leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, causing infection and inflammation.
B. Obstruction: Although obstruction can occur in diverticulosis, it typically causes symptoms such as bloating, abdominal distention, and pain, not fever and rigidity.
C. Infection: While infection can occur with diverticulosis, fever and rigidity in this scenario are more likely due to perforation leading to peritonitis, which is a more severe condition.
D. Constipation: While constipation can exacerbate diverticulosis, it would not typically cause fever or abdominal rigidity.
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