A client with obesity is prescribed orlistat for weight loss. The client asks the nurse, "I understand the medication prevents digestion of fat, but what side effects does this cause?" Which of the following responses by the nurse are correct? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY
Oily stools are common, especially when excessive fat is consumed.
Many patients note having an increase of gas and flatus.
Constipation is a common side effect with this medication.
Some patients report the development of fecal incontinence.
This medication doesn't really have any side effects because you can buy it over the counter.
Correct Answer : A,B,D
Choice A reason: Oily stools are common, especially when excessive fat is consumed, because orlistat blocks the absorption of fat in the intestines. The undigested fat is then eliminated in the stool, making it oily, greasy, or foul-smelling.
Choice B reason: Many patients note having an increase of gas and flatus, because orlistat can also interfere with the digestion of carbohydrates and proteins, causing fermentation and gas production in the colon.
Choice C reason: Constipation is not a common side effect with this medication. In fact, orlistat may cause the opposite effect of diarrhea, as the unabsorbed fat can irritate the bowel and increase the motility.
Choice D reason: Some patients report the development of fecal incontinence, because orlistat can cause unpredictable bowel movements and difficulty in controlling the passage of stool, especially if the patient consumes a high-fat diet.
Choice E reason: This medication does have side effects, even though it can be bought over the counter. Orlistat is a prescription-strength drug that can cause serious adverse reactions, such as liver damage, kidney stones, gallbladder problems, and vitamin deficiencies. The over-the-counter version is a lower dose than the prescription one, but it still requires medical supervision and lifestyle changes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: The client quitting smoking 6 months ago is not a factor that would exclude her from being an appropriate surgical candidate. In fact, smoking cessation is a requirement for bariatric surgery, as smoking increases the risk of complications such as infection, thrombosis, and poor wound healing.
Choice B reason: The client having a strong family history of obesity is not a factor that would exclude her from being an appropriate surgical candidate. Family history is one of the genetic factors that can contribute to obesity, but it does not determine the eligibility for bariatric surgery. Other factors such as BMI, comorbidities, lifestyle, and motivation are more important.
Choice C reason: The client drinking six to eight cans of beer daily is a factor that would exclude her from being an appropriate surgical candidate. Alcohol abuse is a contraindication for bariatric surgery, as it can cause liver damage, malnutrition, dehydration, and addiction transfer. The client would need to abstain from alcohol for at least 6 months before and after the surgery.
Choice D reason: The client having poorly controlled type 2 diabetes is not a factor that would exclude her from being an appropriate surgical candidate. Type 2 diabetes is one of the comorbidities that can qualify a client for bariatric surgery, as it can improve or resolve after the surgery. However, the client would need to have a good glycemic control before the surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Including foods high in starch and proteins is not a specific dietary instruction for a client who has biliary colic from chronic cholecystitis. Starch and protein intake may vary depending on the client's overall nutritional needs and preferences.
Choice B reason: Including foods high in fiber is a general dietary recommendation for most people, but it is not directly related to biliary colic or cholecystitis. Fiber helps with bowel regularity and may lower the risk of some chronic diseases, but it does not affect the production or flow of bile.
Choice C reason: Avoiding foods high in sodium is a dietary instruction for clients who have hypertension, heart failure, or kidney disease, but it is not relevant for biliary colic or cholecystitis. Sodium intake does not influence the formation or dissolution of gallstones, which are the main cause of biliary colic.
Choice D reason: Avoiding foods high in fat is a dietary instruction for clients who have biliary colic from chronic cholecystitis. Fat intake stimulates the contraction of the gallbladder, which can cause pain and inflammation if there are gallstones blocking the bile ducts. Reducing fat intake can help prevent or reduce the frequency and severity of biliary colic episodes.
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