INDEX NURS 2236 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheet

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

Generic Trade Classification Dose Route Time/Frequency
Name Name
sennosides Senokot laxatives 50mg PO qhs

Peak Onset Duration Normal Dosage Range

unknown 6-12 hour 3-4 days

Why is your patient taking this medication? For IV meds, compatability with IV drips and/or solutions

laxative for constipation

Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
treatment of constipation, Contraindications/warnings/interactions
abdominal pain of unknown cause; rectal fissure; ulcerated hemorrhoids;
laxative action known alcohol intolerance; may lead to laxative dependence;

Common side effects

cramping; diarrhea; nausea; pink-red or brown-black discoloration of urine;
electrolyte abnormalites; laxative dependence

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC, or herbal Lab value alterations caused by medicine
medicines (ask patient specifically)
orally administered drugs

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication

short-term therapy; bulk in the diet; increase fluid intake; may cause a change in
urine to pink, red, violet, yellow, or brown
don not use laxative when abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever is present

Nursing Process - Assessment Assessment Evaluation

(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give Check after giving
Vital Signs this med?
abdominal distention; presence of bowel sounds a soft, formed bowel movement
assess color, consistency, and amount of
stool produced