Laxatives
TERMS
□ bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
□ docusate sodium (Colace)
□ magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)
□ psyllium (Metamucil)
QUICK LOOK AT THE CHAPTER AHEAD
The laxatives are a group of drugs that are used to assist in the defecation process. They are able to do a number of things depending on their classification: speed up the passage of feces, soften the stool, or enlarge the volume of the stool. Unfortunately, this is a group of drugs that is often misused by clients as many individuals do not understand the principles of proper bowel function.
Table 63-1 Laxatives | |||||||||||||||
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LAXATIVES CLIENT TEACHINGFor All Laxatives
Bowel function should be maintained with increased fiber in diet, increased fluids, and exercise.
Take at bedtime or in the morning.Saline Laxatives
Do not breast-feed.
Take at bedtime or in the morning.
Drink 8 ounces of water after administration to advance drug action.
Drink 8 ounces of water after administration to advance drug action.Stimulant Laxatives
Do not breast-feed.
Do not chew tablets.
Take with 8 ounces of water or other liquid.
Do not chew tablets.
Take with 8 ounces of water or other liquid.Bulk-Forming Laxatives
Do not breast-feed.
Add powder to liquid if using standard formulation.
Add liquid to powder if using effervescent formulation.
Drink 8 ounces of water after administration.
Appetite may be diminished if taken before meals.
Check sodium and sugar content of drug if on restricted diet.
Check sodium and sugar content of drug if on restricted diet.Lubricant Laxatives
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