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 A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Guarding and rebound tenderness are signs of peritonitis, which is a serious complication of colonoscopy. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. It can be caused by perforation or puncture of the colon during the colonoscopy, which allows bacteria and fecal matter to enter the peritoneal space. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of peritonitis, such as abdominal pain, rigidity, fever, and leukocytosis.
Choice B reason: Nausea and vomiting are not specific signs of a complication of colonoscopy. They may be caused by other factors, such as the sedation, the bowel preparation, or the ingestion of food or fluids after the procedure. Nausea and vomiting may also be symptoms of other conditions, such as gastroenteritis, food poisoning, or pregnancy.
Choice C reason: Diarrhea is not a sign of a complication of colonoscopy. Diarrhea may be a normal consequence of the bowel preparation, which involves taking laxatives or enemas to clear the colon before the procedure. Diarrhea may also be caused by other factors, such as the ingestion of food or fluids after the procedure, or the presence of an underlying bowel disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.
Choice D reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds are not a sign of a complication of colonoscopy. Hyperactive bowel sounds may indicate increased peristalsis, which is the movement of the digestive tract. Hyperactive bowel sounds may be a normal response to the bowel preparation, the ingestion of food or fluids after the procedure, or the stimulation of the colon during the colonoscopy. Hyperactive bowel sounds may also be present in conditions such as diarrhea, gastroenteritis, or intestinal obstruction.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not the best response because it is alarmist and does not address the client's concern. The nurse should not assume that the client needs to have their medications adjusted or be admitted to the hospital without further assessment.
Choice B reason: This is not the best response because it is inaccurate and does not explain the link between urine retention and confusion. The nurse should not imply that the client is causing their own confusion by not drinking enough water.
Choice C reason: This is the best response because it is accurate and educates the client on the effects of dehydration on the body. The nurse should encourage the client to drink more fluids throughout the day and offer strategies to make it easier for them to access the bathroom at night.
Choice D reason: This is not the best response because it is irrelevant and does not address the client's dehydration. The nurse should not suggest that the client has a urinary tract infection without evidence or testing. The nurse should also not discourage the client from urinating at night, as this can lead to other complications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.