A patient has been taking psyllium [Metamucil] two to three times daily for several days. The patient complains of stomach pain but has not had a stool. What will the nurse do?
a. Ask the patient to drink a full glass of water.
b. Give another dose of the psyllium.
c. Request an order for a bisacodyl [Dulco-lax] suppository.
d. Palpate the patient's abdomen and aus-cultate for bowel sounds.
D
Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative and can cause a fecal impaction or obstruction. Abdominal pain can be a sign of impaction or obstruction, so the nurse should assess the patient for this complication. Giving fluids by mouth, administering more laxative, or giving a suppository are all contraindicated if an obstruction has developed and should not be done until this condition is ruled out.
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