Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 80%
Simulated
A nurse is providing teaching to a client who takes opioid pain medication and has a new prescription for docusate sodium. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: It might take up to 3 days for the medication to work. This statement shows understanding because docusate sodium is a stool softener used to prevent constipation caused by opioid pain medications. It works by promoting water and fat penetration into stool, making it easier to pass. However, it is not a fast-acting medication and may take a few days to show its effects. This response demonstrates the client's comprehension of the medication's mechanism and expected timeline.
Incorrect Choices:
A: I will take the medication for diarrhea - This is incorrect as docusate sodium is not used to treat diarrhea.
B: I can take this medication along with mineral oil - This is incorrect because combining docusate sodium with mineral oil can lead to decreased effectiveness and potential adverse effects.
C: I should drink 4 ounces of water when I take the medication - While staying hydrated is important when taking docusate sodium, this statement does not specifically show understanding of the medication
Incorrect Choices:
A: I will take the medication for diarrhea - This is incorrect as docusate sodium is not used to treat diarrhea.
B: I can take this medication along with mineral oil - This is incorrect because combining docusate sodium with mineral oil can lead to decreased effectiveness and potential adverse effects.
C: I should drink 4 ounces of water when I take the medication - While staying hydrated is important when taking docusate sodium, this statement does not specifically show understanding of the medication