Colace (docusate sodium) 100 mg correct answersIndications for Use: Treatment of constipation
associated with dry, hard stools and decreased intestinal motility.
Prevention of opioid-induced constipation.
Safe Dosages: 2 tablets once daily at bedtime; maximum 4 tablets twice daily
Nursing Implications:Assess for abdominal distension, presence of bowel sounds, and usual
pattern of bowel function.
Assess color, consistency, and amount of stool produced. Administer with a full glass of water or
juice preferably in the evening. Do not administer within 2 hr of other laxatives, especially
mineral oil. May cause increased absorption.
Side Effects: electrolyte imbalances, dehydration,abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
rashes, urine discoloration
Motrin (ibuprofen) 800 mg correct answersIndications for Use: Mild to moderate pain or
dysmenorrhea, Inflammatory disorders (like arthritis), Lowering of fever
Safe Dosages: 400-800 mg 3-4 times daily (not to exceed 3600 mg/day)
Nursing Implications: Assess pain (note type, location, and intensity) prior to and 1-2 hr
following administration. For rapid initial effect, administer 30 min before or 2 hr after meals.
May be administered with food, milk, or antacids to decrease GI irritation. Tablets may be
crushed and mixed with fluids or food; 800-mg tablet can be dissolved in water
Side Effects: headache, dizziness, drowsiness, psychic disturbances, amblyopia, blurred vision,
tinnitus, arrhythmias, edema, GI bleeding, hepatitis, constipation, dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting,
abdominal discomfort, toxic epidermal necrolysis, blood dyscrasias, prolonged bleeding time,
allergic reactions
Tylenol (acetaminophen) 325 mg correct answersIndications for Use: Treatment of: pain, fever.
Safe Dosages: 325-650 mg q 4-6 hr or 1 g 3-4 times daily or 1300 mg q 8 hr (not to exceed 4 g or
2.5 g/24 hr in patients with hepatic/renal impairment)
Nursing Implications: Assess overall health status and alcohol usage before administering
acetaminophen. Patients who are malnourished or chronically abuse alcohol are at higher risk of
developing hepatotoxicity with chronic use of usual doses of this drug. Assess amount,
frequency, and type of drugs taken in patients self-medicating, especially with OTC drugs.
Prolonged use of acetaminophen increases the risk of adverse renal effects. For short-term use,
combined doses of acetaminophen and salicylates should not exceed the recommended dose of
either drug given alone.
Pain: Assess type, location, and intensity prior to and 30-60 min following administration.
Fever: Assess fever; note presence of associated signs (diaphoresis, tachycardia, and malaise).
Side Effects: renal failure (high doses/chronic use), neutropenia, pancytopenia, rash, urticaria,
increased liver enzymes
Tylenol 3 (oxycodone/acetaminophen) 5/325 mg correct answersacetaminophen
Indications for Use: Treatment of: pain, fever.