The nurse demonstrates an understanding of the different ...

[jenna1]

The nurse demonstrates an understanding of the different mechanisms of action of laxatives by stating:
 
  1. Bulk-forming laxatives are also called osmotic laxatives.
  2. Surfactant laxatives cause water and fat to be absorbed into the stools.
  3. Mineral oil can interfere with the absorption of water-soluble vitamins.
  4. Stimulant laxatives must be taken with plenty of water.

Question 2

The nurse is assessing an older client for constipation. The client says, I have difficulty moving my bowels about half the time. The nurse recognizes that a symptom of constipation is straining to pass stools at least _____ of the time.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[xiaomengxian]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Bulk-forming laxatives are fiber agents. These have a much different mechanism of action than do saline cathartics or osmotic laxatives, which pull water into the fecal mass to create a more watery stool.
Rationale 2: Surfactant laxatives do cause water and fat to be absorbed into the stools.
Rationale 3: Mineral oil can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Rationale 4: Stimulant laxatives increase peristalsis and are not necessarily dependent upon water consumption.
Global Rationale: Surfactant laxatives do cause water and fat to be absorbed into the stools. Bulk-forming laxatives are fiber agents. Mineral oil can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Stimulant laxatives increase peristalsis and are not necessarily dependent upon water consumption.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 25
Rationale: Straining to pass stools at least 25 of the time is a symptom of constipation.
Global Rationale: Straining to pass stools at least 25 of the time is a symptom of constipation.