An elderly patient comes into the clinic. You note on her routine ...

[jlmhmf]

An elderly patient comes into the clinic. You note on her routine clinic-visit questionnaire that she has checked frequent use of a stimulant laxative. You should pay close attention to which of this patient's laboratory values.
 
  1. Vitamin C level
  2. Phosphorous level
  3. Vitamin B12 level
  4. Potassium level

Question 2

A frail, 67-year-old nursing home patient is brought to the clinic for a barium enema. For the next few days following the procedure, he fails to have any bowel movements. The physician will probably order a(n):
 
  1. saline laxative.
  2. antispasmodic to increase peristalsis.
  3. emetic to relieve pressure.
  4. stool softener.

[srodz]

Answer to Question 1

4
Overdosage or overuse of stimulant laxatives may cause excessive fluid loss and electrolyte im-balance, particularly hypokalemia.

Answer to Question 2

1
Saline laxatives are used to cleanse the bowel in preparation for endoscopic or colonoscopic examination, x-ray studies, or surgery.

[jlmhmf]

Excellent

[peter]

Gracias!