Stool softener

CONSTIPATION The nurse checks the bowel elimination pattern daily because constipation can occur with repeated doses of a narcotic. The nurse keeps a daily record of bowel movements and informs the primary health care provider if constipation appears to be a problem. Most patients should begin taking a stool softener or laxative with the initial dose of a narcotic analgesic. Many patients need to continue taking a laxative as long as the narcotic analgesic is taken. If the patient is constipated despite the use of a stool softener, the primary health care provider may prescribe an enema or another means of relieving constipation. 

MANAGING CONSTIPATION. Constipation caused by decreased gastric motility can be a problem widi cholinergic dm. The nurse urges the patient to increase fluid intake up to 2000 mL daily (if healdi conditions permit), eat a diet high in fiber, and obtain adequate exercise The primary healdi care provider may prescribe a stool softener, if necessary, to prevent constipation. 

If you experience constipation, drink plenty of fluids, eat a high-fiber diet, and exercise (if your condition allows). If constipation persists, the primary health care provider may prescribe a mild laxative or stool softener. 

Constipation may occur as an adverse drug reaction. When the patient has constipation as an adverse reaction to another drug, the primary care provider may prescribe a stool softener or another laxative to prevent constipation during the drug therapy. Display 48-2 lists the names of some dm and drug classifications that may cause constipation. 

General treatment measures for all STE ACS and high- and intermediate-risk NSTE patients include admission to hospital, oxygen administration (if oxygen saturation is low, less than 90%), continuous multi-lead ST-segment monitoring for arrhythmias and ischemia, frequent measurement of vital signs, bed rest for 12 hours in hemodynamically stable patients, avoidance of Valsalva maneuver (prescribe stool softeners routinely), and pain relief (Fig. 5-3). 

Also known as surfactants and stool softeners, emollients (e.g., salts of docusate) act by increasing the surface wetting action on the stool leading to a softening effect. They reduce friction and make the stool easier to pass. These agents are not recommended for treating constipation of long duration. 

Laxatives may provide appropriate relief when constipation occurs during the postpartum period, when not breastfeeding and in immobile patients. Patients who are not constipated but who need to avoid straining (e.g., patients with hemorrhoids, hernia, or myocardial infarction) may benefit from stool softeners or mild laxatives. 

Hydration, heating pads, relaxation, and distraction Stool softener and/or stimulants for constipation Antihistamine for itching Antiemetics for nausea or vomiting... 

Which of the following is a stool softener that has no effect on absorption of fat-soluble vitamins ... 

If additional therapy is warranted, the use of supplemental fiber with or without a stool softener is appropriate. Lactulose, sorbitol, bisacodyl, or senna can be used occasionally. 

Continue diet increments Constipation Fiber supplement Stool softener Abdominal radiograph Laxative (if x-ray confirms constipation)... 

Senokot-S Laxative, stool softener Tab Docusate 50 mg. Senna 187 mg 1-2tabqhs prn... 

Various, DC Softgels (Goldline), Stool Softener (Apothecary), Stool Softener DC (Rugby), Surfak Liquigels (Pharmacia)... 

Various, Colace (Roberts), D-S-S (Magno-Humphries), Non-Habit Forming Stool Softener, Stool Softener Rugby), Regulax SS (Republic)... 

Various, Dulcolax (Boehringer Ingelheim), D.O.S., Genasoft (Goldline Consumer), Phillip s Liqui-Gels (Bayer Consumer), Stool Softener (Rugby)... 

OTC Docusate Calcium-. Sulfolax, Surfak Stool Softener Combinations... 

Sodium docusate (hydrophilic stool softener) 50 mg daily for 1 week, then as needed Oral Occasionally, strong urge to defecate —12 hours after use... 

Mild laxative/stool softener combination (e.g., Senekot + sodium docusate) As directed for age 1 night per week or less Oral Occasional loose stool or urgency to defecate... 

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