Question

A community health nurse is caring for a patient who has a pressure ulcer and requires assistance with bathing, grooming, and toileting. Docusate sodium, daily weights, and a dressing change of the wound twice a day are ordered. When performing which nursing interventions should the nurse educate the patient about docusate sodium? Select all that apply.

1. Bathing
2. Toileting
3. Daily weights
4. Wound treatment
5. Medication administration

Answer 1

The nurse should educate the patient about docusate sodium during medication administration and potentially while assisting with toileting, as it is a stool softener used to prevent constipation.

Step-by-step explanation:

When providing nursing care to a patient who requires assistance with bathing, grooming, and toileting, and who has been prescribed docusate sodium, the nurse should take the opportunity to educate the patient about medication administration, particularly while assisting with toileting activities. Docusate sodium is commonly used as a stool softener to prevent constipation, a condition that can easily affect patients with limited mobility due to conditions such as a pressure ulcer. During the administration of medications, it is a prime time for the nurse to explain the purpose of docusate sodium, how it helps in preventing constipation, and what to expect in terms of bowel movements. It is not as essential to discuss docusate sodium during bathing, daily weights, or wound treatment unless the patient specifically asks questions related to medication during these activities.