An older adult's constipation has not responded to first-line laxatives, so lactulose has been prescribed. The nurse should know that this medication achieves a therapeutic effect by which of the following means?
A) Decreasing the viscosity of intestinal contents in the duodenum
B) Pulling water into the intestinal lumen by osmotic pressure
C) Irritating the intestinal mucous membrane
D) Relaxing the muscle tone of the ileocecal valve and anal sphincter
B
Feedback:
Lactulose (Chronulac, Cephulac) is a disaccharide that is not absorbed from the GI tract. It exerts laxative effects by pulling water into the intestinal lumen. It does not change muscle tone, change the viscosity of bowel contents, or irritate the intestinal epithelium.
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