A patient with a history of myocardial infarction has developed ...

[erika]

A patient with a history of myocardial infarction has developed constipation. Which of the fol-lowing laxatives would be most appropriate for this patient?
 
  a. Sodium phosphate (Fleet Phospho-Soda)
  b. Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
  c. Docusate sodium (Colace)
  d. Magnesium citrate (Citrate of Magnesia)

Question 2

Which of the following statements most accurately describes the therapeutic action of docusate potassium (Diocto-K)?
 
  a. It stimulates intestinal muscle to contract more fully and quickly.
  b. It incorporates water and liquids into stool to make a soft, bulky mass.
  c. It pulls sodium and water out of interstitial spaces into the gastrointestinal (GI) tract lumen.
  d. It absorbs bacteria and toxins in the lumen of the GI tract.

[Sarahjh]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Stool softeners such as docusate are used to prevent constipation in patients who should avoid straining at stool. These patients include those with myocardial infarction or those who have had rectal surgery.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Docusate potassium is a stool softener. Drugs in this group incorporate water and lipids into the stool, producing an emollient action that reduces surface tension. The added water makes the fe-cal mass softer as well.