The nurse administers teriparatide and evaluates the drug as effective in achieving desired effects when what is assessed?

Metoclopramide is a medication that increases muscle contractions in the upper digestive tract and speeds up the rate at which the stomach empties into the intestines. It is used to treat gastroparesis (slow stomach emptying) in people with diabetes, which can cause heartburn and stomach discomfort after meals.

Choice A is wrong because impaction is a condition where a large mass of dry, hard stool becomes stuck in the rectum and cannot be passed.

Metoclopramide does not treat impaction, but laxatives or enemas may be used instead.

Choice C is wrong because encopresis is a condition where a child over the age of 4 has involuntary bowel movements, usually due to chronic constipation.

Metoclopramide does not treat encopresis, but behavioral therapy, laxatives, or dietary changes may be used instead.

Choice D is wrong because metoclopramide is not used for clients requiring diagnostic procedures involving the stomach or intestines.

However, it may be used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or surgery.

The nurse should ask this question because the client is taking a chemical stimulant laxative, which can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, especially in combination with medications for heart failure and osteoarthritis that may also affect fluid and electrolyte balance. The nurse should assess the client’s hydration status and risk of hypovolemia or hypotension.

Choice B. Timing of medication administration is wrong because it is not the priority question in this situation.

The nurse should ask this question later to determine if the client is taking the medications as prescribed and if there are any drug interactions or adverse effects.

Choice C. Previous effectiveness of laxatives is wrong because it is not relevant to the client’s current condition.

The nurse should ask this question later to evaluate the client’s bowel habits and history of constipation.

Choice D. The amount of fiber intake is wrong because it is not the priority question in this situation.

The nurse should ask this question later to educate the client about dietary measures to prevent constipation and promote bowel health.