The nurse demonstrates an understanding of the different mechanisms of action of laxatives by stating:

Question

1. "Bulk-forming laxatives are also called osmotic laxatives."
2. "Surfactant laxatives cause water and fat to be absorbed into the stools."
3. "Mineral oil can interfere with the absorption of water-soluble vitamins."
4. "Stimulant laxatives must be taken with plenty of water."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Bulk-forming laxatives are fiber agents. These have a much different mechanism of action than do saline cathartics or osmotic laxatives, which pull water into the fecal mass to create a more watery stool.
Rationale 2: Surfactant laxatives do cause water and fat to be absorbed into the stools.
Rationale 3: Mineral oil can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Rationale 4: Stimulant laxatives increase peristalsis and are not necessarily dependent upon water consumption.
Global Rationale: Surfactant laxatives do cause water and fat to be absorbed into the stools. Bulk-forming laxatives are fiber agents. Mineral oil can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Stimulant laxatives increase peristalsis and are not necessarily dependent upon water consumption.