Dulcolax Stool Softener Supp (docusate Sodium)

NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets (You will need to make additional copies of these forms) Generic Name docusate sodium Peak Unknown

Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency Dulcolax Stool Softener laxatives 1 unit REC As needed PRN Onset Duration Normal dosage range 2-15 min Unknown 50-100 mg or 1 unit containing 283 mg docusate sodium, soft soap, and glycerin.

Why is your patient getting this medication Constipation Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered) 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.

For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or solutions N/A 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. Common side effects Mild cramps. Lab value alterations caused by medicine None known

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication Advise patients that laxatives should be used only for short-term 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 (6-8 full glasses/day), and increasing mobility. Normal bowel habits are variable and may vary from 3 times/day to 3 times/wk. Instruct patients with cardiac disease to avoid straining during bowel movements (Valsalva maneuver). Advise patient not to use laxatives when abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever is present. Advise patient not to take docusate within 2 hr of other laxatives. Assessment Evaluation Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving med? A soft, formed bowel When abdominal pain, nausea, movement. Rectal dose vomiting, or fever is present or when forms produce results within client is not constipated. 2-15 min.