A patient is receiving morphine for pain control. What will the nurse emphasize about preventing constipation?
a. Adequate hydration consists of four full glasses of water every day.
b. Laxatives should be given on a daily basis.
c. Stool softeners are taken on a regular basis during opioid use.
d. Enemas should be given on a weekly basis.
ANS: C
When codeine or morphine is used regularly for pain control in cancer patients, it is imperative that the individual know that stool softeners should be initiated and continued as long as constipating medicines are being taken. Although adequate hydration is important in the prevention of constipation, individual needs vary, and hydration alone cannot prevent constipation related to opioid use. Laxatives are too harsh to be given regularly unless specifically ordered by the health care provider. Enemas are not a preventive measure but an intervention intended to produce a more positive outcome.
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