Drug Card Senna

NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets (You will need to make additional copies of these forms) Generic Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency laxatives Name Senokot 2 tabs PO Q hs Sennosides Peak Onset Duration Normal dose range 24-48 hr (up to 3-5 unknown unknown 12-50 mg 1-2 times daily days)

Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered) Treatment of constipation, particularly when associated with constipating drugs. Alters water and electrolyte transport in the large intestine, resulting in accumulation of water and increased peristalsis.

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

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) May ↓ absorption of other orally administered drugs because of decreased transit time

Lab value alterations caused by medicine None found

Excessive or prolonged use may lead to dependence Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, especially when associated with fever or other signs of an acute abdomen

Common side effects mild cramps, diarrhea

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication Advise patients that laxatives should be used only for shortterm therapy. Long-term therapy may cause electrolyte imbalance and dependence Encourage patients to use other forms of bowel regulation, such as increasing bulk in the diet, increasing fluid intake (68 full glasses/day)

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

Assessment Why would you hold or not give this med? Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, especially when associated with fever or other signs of an acute abdominal problems

Evaluation Check after giving A soft, formed bowel movement, usually within 24-48 hr. Therapy may take 3-5 days for results. Rectal dose forms produce results within 2-15 min