Author Question: Which is the laxative of choice for an older patient who is in the end stage of Alzheimer's disease ... (Read 38 times)

luvbio · **on:** Jul 24, 2018

Which is the laxative of choice for an older patient who is in the end stage of Alzheimer's disease and requires a daily laxative?

a. Emollient
b. Stimulant
c. Fecal softener
d. Bulk forming

Question 2

A friend reports using loperamide (Imodium) for continual diarrhea for a week since returning home from a vacation outside the country. Which is the nurse's best response?

a. There are some other over-the-counter products available for diarrhea, such as Kaopectate (bismuth subsalicylate).
b. I'd stop taking the Imodium and go in to see a health care provider immediately. You may have an infection in your intestinal tract.
c. If you're not running a temperature, I wouldn't worry. That happens to many people when they travel.
d. As long as you can drink plenty of fluids, I'm sure the diarrhea will go away once you're back in a normal routine.

jaymee143 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 24, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Bulk-forming laxatives are considered the safest laxative for routine use because they cause water to be retained within the stool, which increases bulk, and stimulates peristalsis. Emollient laxatives reduce muscle tone and decrease peristalsis over time. Stimulant laxatives can cause cramping and should not be used on a regular basis. Fecal softeners are not laxatives.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Diarrhea may be a defense mechanism to rid the body of infecting organisms or irritants. Diarrhea is usually self-limiting and should not be suppressed with over-the-counter products. It is safest for people who are suffering from diarrhea after traveling outside the country to visit their health care provider, who can determine whether an infection is present.