ATI LPN
Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank
Chapter 51 : Bowel Disorder Drugs Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is receiving lactulose three times a day. The nurse knows that the patient is not constipated and is receiving this drug for which reason?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Lactulose produces a laxative effect but also works to reduce blood ammonia levels by converting ammonia to ammonium. Ammonium is a water-soluble cation that is trapped in the intestines and cannot be reabsorbed into the systemic circulation. This effect has proved helpful in reducing elevated serum ammonia levels in patients with severe liver disease. The other options are incorrect.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is taking linaclotide to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The nurse will monitor this patient for which adverse effect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Common adverse effects of linaclotide (Linzess) are diarrhea, abdominal pain, and flatulence. Elevated blood glucose levels, chest pain, and chronic constipation are not adverse effects of linaclotide.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer methylnaltrexone. This drug is appropriate for which patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Methylnaltrexone is approved only for terminally ill (hospice) patients who have opioid-induced constipation. The other options are incorrect.
Question 4 of 5
A patient has been treated with alosetron for severe irritable bowel syndrome for 2 weeks. She calls the clinic and tells the nurse that she has been experiencing constipation for 3 days. The nurse will take which action?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Alosetron must be discontinued immediately if constipation or signs of ischemic colitis occur. The other options are incorrect.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is reviewing the uses of oral laxatives. Which conditions are general contraindications to or cautions about the use of oral laxatives? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B,C,D,F
Rationale: Cautious use of laxatives is recommended in the presence of these: acute surgical abdomen; appendicitis symptoms, such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting; intestinal obstruction; and undiagnosed abdominal pain. Oral laxatives must not be used with fecal impaction; mineral oil enemas are indicated for fecal impaction. The other options are indications for other laxative use.