Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Name TradeName Classification Dose Route Time/frequenc

polyethylene MiraLax Laxatives, osmotics 1 packet PO y
glycol qd
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
2-4 days Unknown Unknown 17g. (One heaping teaspoon) in 8 oz. of water may be
used for up to two weeks
Why is your patient getting this medication For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or
Constipation solutions
N/A
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
Acts as an osmotic agent, drawing water into the Contraindications/warnings/interactions
lumen of the GI tract. Indicated for evacuation of the GI obstruction, gastric retention, toxic colitis,
GI tract without water or electrolyte imbalance. Megacolon. Use cautiously in abdominal pain of
uncertain cause, particularly if accompanied by fever.
Common side effects
Abdominal bloating, cramping, flatulence, nausea
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or Lab value alterations caused by medicine
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) None known for this drug
Fludrocortisone, Hydrocortisone: The overuse or
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
abuse of laxatives can cause significant loss of
medication
electrolytes and potentiate the risk of hypokalemia
Inform patient that 2-4 days may be required to produce a
associated with corticosteroid therapy.
bowel movement. Should not be used for more than 2
Corticosteroids promote the retention of sodium and
wk. Prolonged, frequent, or excessive use may result in
water and the excretion of potassium. Although these
electrolyte imbalance and laxative dependence. Advise
effects are primarily associated with
patient to notify health care professional if unusual
mineralocorticoids like fludrocortisone, they may
cramps, bloating, or diarrhea occurs
also occur with higher dosages of glucocorticoids or
adrenocorticotropic agents, particularly if given
systemically for longer than brief periods.
Demadex: The chronic use or abuse of laxatives may
potentiate the pharmacologic effects of diuretics.
Laxatives can cause significant losses of fluid and
electrolytes, including sodium, potassium,
magnesium and zinc, and these effects may be
additive to those of diuretics.
Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation
(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give this med? Check after giving
Assess patient for abdominal distention, Diarrhea, obstruction. A soft, formed bowel
presence of bowel sounds, and usual movement.
pattern of bowel function.