NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

(You will need to make additional copies of these forms)

Generic Name Trade Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Docusate sodium Name Stool softener 200 mg PO BID
Colace
Peak Onset Duration Normal dose range:
unknown 24-48 hours (up to 3-5 Unknown 50-500mg once daily
days)

Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)

(Why med ordered)
Promotes incorporation of water into stool, resulting in softer
fecal mass. May also promoste electrolyte and water
secretion into the colon.
Indicated for the prevention of constipation.
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Hypersensitivity, Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, especially
associated w/ and acute abdominal condition.
Common side effects
Throat irritation, mild cramps, rashes.

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or Lab value alterations caused by medicine
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) N/A
No significant interactions
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Encourage pt to use other forms of bowel regulation such as
increasing bulk and fluid intake and increasing mobility. Advise pt
to report any nausea, vomiting or fever. Take with a full glass of
water or juice. Do not take within 2 hr of other laxatives.
Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation
(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
Assess for abdominal distention, presence of med? A soft formed BM in 24 hours
bowel sounds, and usual pattern of bowel fxn, Loose stools to 5 days.
as well as color consistency, and amount of
stool produced.