Medication Worksheet

(You will need to make additional copies of this form)

Generic Peak/Onset For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips

docusate Trade Classification PO:varies and/or solutions
sodium Colace Surfactant, emollient P.R.unknwn
laxative
Dose Route Time/frequency Duration Normal dosage range
PO:24-72 50-360 mg PO daily until bowel movements
hrs are normal. As enema: dilute 1:24 with
sterile water and give 100-150 mL
Why is your patient taking this med? (retention enema), 300-500mL (evacuation
enema), or 0.5-1.5 L (flushing enema)
Mechanism of action and indications (Why is med
ordered) Stool softener; reduces surface tension of
interfacing liquid contents of bowel; Promotes incorporation
of additional liquid into stool, thus forming softer mass.

Lab value alterations caused by med Common side effects

None reported Fainting, throat irritation, bitter taste, diarrhea, laxative
dependence with long-term or excessive use, mild abdominal
cramping

Nursing Implications (What to focus on)
Contraindications/warnings/ interactions
Drug-drug: mineral oil; contraindicated in pts
hypersensitive to drug or components, those with
intestinal obstruction, undiagnosed abdominal pain,
signs of appendicitis, fecal impaction, or acute
surgical abdomen
Nursing assessment (pre-administration) obtain history
of bowel patterns before therapy; for constipation,
determine if pt has adequate fluid intake, exercise, and diet;
give liquid in milk or fruit juice to mask bitter taste.
Assessment (why would you hold this med?)
If abdominal cramping occurs, stop drug and notify
prescriber.
Evaluation (post-administration) Be alert for adverse
reactions, drug interactions, monitor bowel pattern, assess
pt and family knowledge of drug therapy

What would you teach the patient about this medication? Teach pt about dietary sources of
bulk, which include bran and other cereals, fresh fruit, and other vegetables; instruct pt to use
only occasionally and not for longer than 1 week without prescriber’s knowledge; tell pt to stop
taking drug and to notify prescriber if severe cramping occurs.

TJ2010