Docusate Sodium (colace)

NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets (You will need to make additional copies of these forms) Generic Name Docusate sodium

Trade Name

Classification Stool softener

Dose

Route

200 mg

PO

Time/frequency BID

Colace

Peak

Onset

Duration

unknown

24-48 hours (up to 3-5 days)

Unknown

Normal dose range: 50-500mg once daily

Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered)

Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions

Promotes incorporation of water into stool, resulting in softer fecal mass. May also promoste electrolyte and water secretion into the colon. Indicated for the prevention of constipation.

Hypersensitivity, Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, especially associated w/ and acute abdominal condition.

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) No significant interactions

Lab value alterations caused by medicine N/A

Common side effects Throat irritation, mild cramps, rashes.

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication Encourage pt to use other forms of bowel regulation such as increasing bulk and fluid intake and increasing mobility. Advise pt to report any nausea, vomiting or fever. Take with a full glass of water or juice. Do not take within 2 hr of other laxatives.

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

Assessment Why would you hold or not give this med? Loose stools

Evaluation Check after giving A soft formed BM in 24 hours to 5 days.