Drug Miralax

NURS 1556 Clinical Medications Worksheets Generic Name Polyethylene glycol Peak 2-4 Days

Onset N/A

Trade Name Miralax Duration N/A

(Why med ordered) Treatment of occasional constipation

Classification Laxative

Dose Route Time/frequency 1 scoop in PO Everyday water For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions N/A Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions GI obstruction, gastric retention; toxic colitis

Mechanism of action and indications

Common side effects Polyethylene glycol in solution “PEG” Abdominal bloating, cramping, flatulence, nausea. acts as an osmotic agent, drawing water into the lumen of the GI tract. Interactions with other patient Lab value alterations caused by medicine drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask N/A patient specifically) Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication No Drug to Drug interaction specifics Inform patient that it may require 2-4 days before a bowel are known with this PT. movement will occur. PEG should not be used for more then 2 wks in a row. Advise pt to let the nurse in charge know if any unusual cramping, bloating or diarrhea occurs. Nursing ProcessAssessment (Pre-administration assessment) Bowel sounds, active in all 4 quadrants.

Assessment Why would you hold or not give this med? If Pt has a known GI- obstruction, or enlarged colon. Or if no bowel sounds are present.

Evaluation Check after giving Assess color, consistency and amount of stool’s produced. Also check for abdominal distention and absence of bowel sounds.