Senokot-s (senna Concentrate 8.6mg + Docusate Sodium 50mg)

NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets (You will need to make additional copies of these forms) Generic Name senna concentrate 8.6 mg + docusate sodium 50 mg Peak unknown

Trade Name Senokot-S / PeriColace Onset 6-12 hrs

Classification laxative

Duration 3-4 days

Dose 2 tabs

Route PO

Time/frequency HS

Normal dosage range 1 to 2 tabs once or twice daily

Why is your patient getting this medication Soften the stool

For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or solutions N/A

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

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

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) None for this patient

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.

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? When abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever is present. When client is not constipated or is experiencing diarrhea.

Evaluation Check after giving Production of a soft, formed bowel movement.