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.
SN instructed patient and caregiver on measures to prevent constipation: increasing fluids (prefer approx. 8 glasses of water daily) eating a diet high in fiber, and avoiding foods with sugars (pasta, pastries, cheese, rice, etc.), exercise regularly at a slow, steady pace, as directed by md if you are able. Both parties verbalized understanding.
SN instructed that infrequent passage of hard, dry stool, low back pain, abdominal fullness and/or abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite, nausea and/or vomiting, and rectal pressure may constitute as signs/symptoms of constipation. Patient verbalized understanding.
Educated patient on new medication; Amitiza which is used to treat chronic constipation, or constipation caused by opioid (narcotic) pain medicine. It may also be used to treat irritable bowel syndrome in women with constipation as the main symptom.
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.
Trulance (plecanatide) is used to treat chronic idiopathic constipation or irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. Trulance works by activating certain substances within your intestines that help increase fluid secretion and muscle movement. Trulance also causes changes in the consistency of your stools.
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.
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.
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.
Colace is a laxative prescribed to treat occasional constipation, as well as constipation associated with certain medical conditions. Docusate sodium, the active ingredient in Colace, works by allowing water and fats to get into the stool. This helps soften the stool and makes the passing stool more comfortable. Your doctor may recommend stool softeners such as docusate sodium as the first method used for preventing and treating constipation.