A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has cancer and is receiving opioids for pain relief. The client has a new prescription for docusate PO daily. When collecting data from the client, which of the following therapeutic effects of docusate should the nurse expect?
Relief from constipation
Relief from nausea
Decreased drowsiness
Decreased cancer pain
The Correct Answer is A
Docusate is a stool softener commonly used to relieve constipation. Opioid pain medications often cause constipation as a side effect by slowing down bowel movements. Docusate helps by increasing the amount of water absorbed by the stool, making it softer and easier to pass.
The other options mentioned are not the primary therapeutic effects of docusate: Relief from nausea: Docusate is not typically prescribed for relief from nausea. Antiemetic medications are used to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
Decreased drowsiness: Docusate does not directly affect drowsiness. Its main action is on the stool consistency, not on alertness or drowsiness.
Decreased cancer pain: Docusate is not prescribed for pain relief. Opioids are generally used to manage cancer pain in this scenario.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["100"]
Explanation
To calculate the IV flow rate in drops per minute (gtt/min), you can use the following formula: Flow rate (gtt/min) = (Volume to be infused in mL) x (Drop factor) / (Time in minutes) In this case, the volume to be infused is 100 mL, the drop factor is 60 gtt/mL, and the time is 60 minutes.
Flow rate (gtt/min) = (100 mL) x (60 gtt/mL) / (60 min)
Canceling out the mL and min units, the formula becomes:
Flow rate (gtt/min) = 100 x 60 / 60
Flow rate (gtt/min) = 100
Therefore, the nurse should set the IV flow rate to deliver 100 gtt/min.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
When reinforcing teaching with a client who has a new prescription for aluminum hydroxide to treat heartburn, the nurse should include constipation as an adverse effect of the medication. Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid commonly used to neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn and indigestion. However, one of its potential side effects is constipation. Aluminum hydroxide can slow down intestinal motility, leading to infrequent or difficult bowel movements.
Hypertension: Aluminum hydroxide is not known to cause hypertension (high blood pressure). However, clients with pre-existing hypertension should be cautious when using antacids containing sodium bicarbonate, as the sodium content may impact blood pressure levels.
Flatulence: Flatulence (excessive gas) is not a common adverse effect of aluminum hydroxide. It primarily works by neutralizing stomach acid and does not typically cause increased gas production.
Headache: Headache is not commonly reported as an adverse effect of aluminum hydroxide. It is more likely to be associated with other factors such as the underlying condition causing heartburn or individual factors.
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