Docusate Sodium (colace)

INDEX Generic Name docusate sodium Peak

Trade Name Colace

NURS 2236 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheet (You will need to made additional copies of these forms) Classification Dose Route Time/Frequency laxatives

Onset

UNK up to 3-5 days 24-48 hours Why is your patient taking this medication? stool softner

200mg

Duration

Normal dosage

BID

50-500mg once daily

unknown For IV meds, compatability with IV drips and/or solutions

Mechanism of action and indications prevention of constipation (in patients who should avoid straining, such as after MI or rectal surgery) Used as enema to soften fecal impaction Promotes incorporation of water into stool, resulting in softer fecal mass. May also promote electrolyte and water secretion into the colon

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC, or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) none significant

Nursing Process - Assessment (Pre-administration assessment assess for abdominal distention, presence of bowel sounds, and usual pattern of bowel function. Assess color, consistency, and amount of stool produced

PO

Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions hypersensitivity; abdominal pain nausea, or vomiting, especially when associated with fever or other signs of an acute abdomen. Excessive or prolonged use may lead to dependence should not be used if prompt results are desired; Common side effects

throat irritation; mild cramps; rashes.

Lab value alterations caused by medicine Electrolyte imbalance

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication used for short-term therapy; use other forms of bowel regulation, such as increasing bulk in the diet, increasing fluid intake, and increasing mobility. with cardiac disease avoid straining during bowel movements; do not use laxatives when abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever is present. do not take within 2 hours of other laxative use Assessment Evaluation Why would you hold or not give Check after giving this med? a soft, formed bowel movement allergy Decrease in constipation nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain