Which type of laxative causes peristalsis by irritating the bowel?
Stool softener
Saline/osmotic laxative
Stimulant laxative
Bulk-forming laxative
The Correct Answer is C
A) Stool softener:
Stool softeners, such as docusate sodium, work by adding moisture to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. They do not directly stimulate bowel movements or peristalsis through irritation of the bowel lining.
B) Saline/osmotic laxative:
Saline or osmotic laxatives, such as magnesium hydroxide (milk of magnesia) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), work by drawing water into the intestines, which softens the stool and increases bowel motility. They do not primarily act by irritating the bowel lining.
C) Stimulant laxative.
Stimulant laxatives work by directly stimulating the nerves in the intestines, which increases the rhythmic contractions of the intestines (peristalsis) and promotes bowel movements. These medications irritate the bowel lining, leading to increased motility and expulsion of stool. Examples of stimulant laxatives include bisacodyl and senna.
D) Bulk-forming laxative:
Bulk-forming laxatives, such as psyllium and methylcellulose, work by increasing the bulk and water content of the stool, which stimulates bowel movements. They do not directly irritate the bowel lining to promote peristalsis. Instead, they absorb water and swell in the intestines, creating a larger, softer stool that is easier to pass.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) A client who has a kidney stone:
Misoprostol is not contraindicated in clients who have kidney stones. Kidney stones are not a known contraindication for the use of misoprostol.
B) A client who is pregnant.
Misoprostol is a medication commonly used to prevent gastric ulcers in individuals who are taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for conditions such as osteoarthritis. However, it is contraindicated in pregnant women due to its potential to cause uterine contractions, leading to miscarriage or preterm labor. Misoprostol is classified as a pregnancy category X medication, meaning that there is clear evidence of fetal risk based on human or animal studies, and its use is contraindicated during pregnancy.
C) A client who has a urinary tract infection:
Misoprostol is not contraindicated in clients who have urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections are not a known contraindication for the use of misoprostol.
D) A client who has osteoarthritis:
Misoprostol is commonly used in clients with conditions such as osteoarthritis to prevent NSAID-induced gastric ulcers. Osteoarthritis is not a contraindication for the use of misoprostol when indicated for gastric ulcer prevention in individuals taking NSAIDs.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Cardiogenic shock:
Cardiogenic shock occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, often due to myocardial infarction (heart attack) or other conditions affecting the heart's function. The client's history of a recent infection does not align with the etiology of cardiogenic shock.
B) Neurogenic shock:
Neurogenic shock occurs due to dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, typically as a result of spinal cord injury or severe brain injury. It is characterized by widespread vasodilation and bradycardia. The client's history of a recent infection does not align with the etiology of neurogenic shock.
C) Hypovolemic shock:
Hypovolemic shock occurs due to a significant loss of blood volume, such as from trauma, hemorrhage, or dehydration. While infection can lead to fluid loss and dehydration in some cases, the client's history of a recent infection suggests a different etiology, specifically septic shock, which is driven by the systemic inflammatory response to infection.
D) Septic shock.
Septic shock is a type of distributive shock caused by a systemic response to infection. It occurs when an infection triggers a widespread inflammatory response, leading to vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, fluid loss from the bloodstream, and impaired tissue perfusion. The client's history of a recent infection suggests that the shock may be septic in nature.

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.