ATI LPN
Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank
Chapter 51 : Bowel Disorder Drugs Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is severely constipated and needs immediate relief. The nurse knows that which class of laxative will provide the most rapid results?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Saline laxatives such as magnesium hydroxide produce a watery stool, usually within 3 to 6 hours of ingestion. Bulk-forming laxatives such as psyllium do not produce a bowel movement rapidly. Stool softeners such as docusate salts do not cause patients to defecate; they simply soften the stool to ease its passage. Magnesium oxide tablets are used as magnesium supplements, not as laxatives.
Question 2 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 3 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 4 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 5 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.