When administering a bulk-forming laxative, the nurse instructs the patient to drink the medication mixed in a full 8-ounce glass of water. Which statement best explains the rationale for this instruction?
a. The water acts to stimulate bowel movements.
b. The water will help to reduce the bulk of the intestinal contents.
c. These laxatives may cause esophageal obstruction if taken with insufficient water.
d. The water acts as a lubricant to produce bowel movements.
Ans: c. These laxatives may cause esophageal obstruction if taken with insufficient water.
Bulk-forming drugs increase water absorption, which results in greater total volume (bulk) of the intestinal contents. Bulk-forming laxatives tend to produce normal, formed stools. Their action is limited to the gastrointestinal tract, so there are few, if any, systemic effects. However, they need to be taken with liberal amounts of water to prevent esophageal obstruction and fecal impaction.
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