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Download Nr565 Week 7 Patient Infographic-Laxatives Heffington D (Final) 6-page-00001 and more Exams Nursing in PDF only on Docsity!
About Laxatives By: Deborah Heffington Laxatives are medications used to treat constipation; they loosen stool and induce bowel movements. Laxatives come in different forms: tablets, capsules, liquids, and suppositories. When do | need a laxative? If previous attempts to relieve constipation through increased fiber intake, regular exercise, and adequate water consumption have been unsuccessful, the use of a laxative may be necessary. P y, +> Va Types of laxatives? “as Bulk: These work by increasing the weight of the stoolsto = ‘YN + promote passage through the intestine. They generally wv work by increasing fiber in the colon. They are ae recommended for constipation caused by diet, recent surgery, diverticulosis, and IBS, Also used by those with an ileostomy or colostomy. Avoid using with acute abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting. Examples: Metamucil, Citrucel, Fibercon Osmotic: These work by pulling water from the surrounding tissues into the intestine, making stools softer and easier to pass. It can be used when lifestyle changes do not control constipation. Their use is avoided in patients with heart disease, hypertension, edema, and kidney disease. Examples: Polyethylene Glycol and Lactulose, nt: These laxatives cause rapid contraction of e muscles and work to push the stool through EB estine more forcefully. These are used for short periods for Opioid-induced constipation, They should (=) not be used by patients who cannot control their bowel movements or those with intestinal @ @ ‘obstruction or fecal impaction. Examples: Dulcolax (Bisacodyl) and Senna Surfactants: These are commonly known as stool softeners. They work to help soften the stool by adding water and fats. This makes the stool soft, resulting in a smooth bowel movement. These are appropriate for chronic constipation, patients with cardiac comorbidities, and those with painful defecation. Safe for infants. They should not be used with intestinal obstruction or if there is nausea and vomiting. Example: Docusate sodium (Colace) Laxative Overuse and Risks Laxative overuse/ abuse occurs when a person's Use of the medication does not comply with the recommended insituctions, causing physical and Referrals peyehelegical dependence. Loxotives ore no! meant fo be taken on a daily or regular basis. Use should be limited lo short A Gastroenterologist may be needed for evaluation episodes (not to exceed | week unless directed to and treatment if do so by a healthcare professional). Consuit your ipation persists provider or pharmacist with questlons or tyle/ dietary concerns related to bowel health. medication nal referrals made for Symptoms of Overuse Ny chological Alternating constipation and diarrhea ultation. Frequent flatulence and cramping Electrolyte imbalances Dehydration Blood in stool Rectal prolapse Impaired gastric function Cautious Laxative Use with: Ulcerative Collis, IBS, with eatingdisorders such Diverticulitis, Renal Disease, Pregnant and Breastfeeding, as Anorexia nervosa and Children under the age of 6, Historyof Fecal bulimia nervosa should Impaction/Obstruction, Recent Abdominal Surgery. Those bela 
