Chapter 34: Drugs Used to Treat Constipation and Diarrhea Clayton/Willihnganz: Basic Pharmacology for Nurses, 17th Edition

1. When the nurse assesses bowel habits in a patient, which is the best example of normal bowel elimination? a. Daily bowel movements b. Multiple soft stools daily c. Daily liquid stools d. Regular bowel elimination pattern of soft stool ANS: D Normal bowel habits are stools that are soft and occur on a regular schedule of elimination for that particular patient. Although this may be routine for some people, it is not normal for everyone. Liquid stools are not considered normal. DIF: Cognitive Level: Comprehension REF: Page 526 OBJ: 1 TOP: Nursing Process Step: Assessment MSC: NCLEX Client Needs Category: Physiological Integrity NOT: CONCEPT(S): Clinical Judgment; Elimination 2. Which drug would be most effective for an obstetric patient who is complaining of constipation as a result of her enlarging uterus and use of prenatal vitamins? a. Saline laxative b. Lubricant laxative c. Stimulant laxative d. Mineral oil ANS: B Lubricant and bulk-forming laxatives may be used in the pregnant patient because little cramping accompanies their use. Saline laxatives are not safe for a pregnant woman because of the bowel distention and possible electrolyte imbalance they may cause. Stimulant laxatives are too harsh for a pregnant woman because they may cause cramping. Mineral oil is not a good laxative to use on a regular basis because it can cause malabsorption of vitamins. DIF: Cognitive Level: Application REF: Page 530 OBJ: 2 TOP: Nursing Process Step: Implementation MSC: NCLEX Client Needs Category: Physiological Integrity NOT: CONCEPT(S): Clinical Judgment; Safety; Elimination 3. The nurse is performing a premedication assessment. For which patient would laxative use be contraindicated? a. Patient with quadriplegia b. Patient with appendicitis c. Geriatric patient d. Patient with fractured femur