pain management
Constipation
SN instructed patient and caregiver on some measures aimed to controlling/managing constipation, such as: establish regular times for evacuations usually after a meal and drink a warm liquid one-half hour before breakfast to stimulate bowel movement, avoid laxative and enema abuse. Instructed on some potential complications of constipation, such as: stool impaction bowel blockage, liquid bowel movement may ooze around hard stool in the colon, pain, valsalva maneuver may be caused by straining, causing a slowed pulse, decreased blood return and increased venous pressure, rectal bleeding and rectal pain.
Taught that low back pain and rectal pressure may constitute as signs/symptoms of constipation.
Instructed on some potential complications of constipation, such as: bowel blockage (no stool passes and pain occurs).
Instructed on some potential complications of constipation, such as: rectal bleeding and rectal pain, among others.
Taught that low back pain and headache may constitute as signs/symptoms of constipation.
SN instructed patient to increase fluid intake after discharge for constipation due to anesthesia and pain medication. Patient may also try warm prune juice, stool softener (Senokot) or magnesium citrate.
SN instructed patient/ CG about Miralax to relieve constipation. SN instructed that MiraLax is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements. Common MiraLax side effects may include: bloating, gas, upset stomach; dizziness; or increased sweating.Get emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to MiraLax such as: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop taking this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have: severe or bloody diarrhea; rectal bleeding; blood in your stools; or severe and worsening stomach pain.
Instructed patient on Docusate, this medication is used to treat occasional constipation. Stomach pain, diarrhea, or cramping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your home health nurse, doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Instructed patient on Dulcolax ( Bisacodyl ) which is used to treat constipation. Most common side effects include: Stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or weakness. If any of these side effects persist or become severe contact MD or HH nurse.
SN instructed patient and caregiver on common side effects of Amitiza include: diarrhea, headache, and nausea. Other side effects include: urinary tract infection, abdominal distention, abdominal pain, dizziness, peripheral edema, sinusitis, vomiting, and flatulence.