drug therapy for constipation and elimination probs Flashcards
(24 cards)
define constipation
slower than normal evacuation of large intestine
what are some causes of constipation
-meds (opioids, anticholinergics, anatacids, iron supplements)
-foods (flour, dairy)
-diseases (hypothyroidism, DM, IBS)
what are some complications of constipation
-HTN
-fecal impaction
-hemorrhoids
-fissures
-megacolon
-bowel perforation
give an example of laxatives
psyllium
bulk forming laxative
what are bulk forming laxatives used for
-add bulk and absorbs water to stimulate
-12-24hrs to work
-treats occasional constipation
-adds bulk to diarrhea
what are some adverse effects of bulk forming laxatives
-severe flatulance
-bloating
what are some contraindications of bulk forming laxatives
-acute abd. pain
-bowel obstruction
-fecal impaction
what are some nursing considerations for bulk forming laxatives
-may reduce absorption of meds
-take 1hr before or 3hrs after med
-take with full glass of water
give an example of laxative lubricants
mineral oil
describe laxative lubricants
-lubricates fecal mass
-6-8hrs to work
-oral or enema
give and example of stool softeners
surfactants
describe stool softeners
-allow water to enter making stool softer
-little laxative effect
-1-3 days to work
-taken daily
give an example of cathartics
bisacodyl
stimulant laxative
what are cathartics used for
-issirtate GI mucosa
-rapid movement of stool
-bowel prep, constipation
-6-12 hours to work
what are some contraindications of cathartics
-acute abd pain
-bowel obstruction
-fecal impaction
what are some adverse effects of cathartics
-cramping
-diarrhea
what are some ursing considerations for cathartics
-take on empty stomach
-do not take with antacids or milk
describe saline cathartics
-used for bowel prep
-magnesium citrate, milk of magnesia, polyethylene glycol
-30-60mins to work
-use with caution with electrolyte imbalances
-causes diarrhea
describe lactulose
-pulls water into intestine
-treats constipation or high ammonia levels
describe lubiprostone
treats IBS-C and opioid induced constipation
describe linaclotide
treats IBS-C
describe sodium polystyrene
treats constipation or hyperkalemia
what are some nursing considerations for laxatives
-assess bowel habits, diet, activity, and fluid intake
-assess abdomen
-insert suppositories high into rectum
-give bulk laxatives with full glass of water
-fall risk
describe patient education for laxatives
-high fiber diets
-increase fluid intake
-exercise (sometimes gum chewing)
-laxatives are short term use only
