NURS 1556 Clinical Medications Worksheets

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

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Docusate Colace Laxative, Stool 1 tab PO Q HS
sodium softener
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or
unknown 24-48 hours (up to 3- Unknown solutions
5 days)
Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered) Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
Promotes incorporation of water into stool, resulting in Contraindications/warnings/interactions -
softer fecal mass. May also promoste electrolyte and Hypersensitivity, Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting,
water secretion into the colon. Indicated for the especially associated w/ and acute abdominal condition.
prevention of constipation. Common side effects - Throat irritation, mild cramps,
rashes.

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal Lab value alterations caused by medicine -
medicines (ask patient specifically) - 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 Why would you hold or Evaluation Check after
(Pre-administration assessment) - Assess for not give this med? - Loose stools giving - A soft formed BM
abdominal distention, presence of bowel in 24 hours to 5 days.
sounds, and usual pattern of bowel function,
as well as color consistency, and amount of
stool produced.