Question

A client is given a new prescription for opioid pain medication to treat chronic pain and is also given prescriptions for a stool softener and stimulant laxative. The client only wants to fill the pain medication prescription. What response by the nurse is best?

a. "Well wait and see if you have constipation, then fill them if you do."
b. "People on opioid medications have to take medications for their bowels."
c. "You don't have to fill any of these prescriptions if you don't want to."
d. "Constipation is a side effect of opioids that does not seem to improve over time."

Answer 1

The best response by the nurse is to educate the client that constipation is a common side effect of opioid pain medication and usually does not improve over time, making it important to also fill the prescriptions for a stool softener and stimulant laxative.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate response by the nurse is d. "Constipation is a side effect of opioids that does not seem to improve over time." This statement provides the client with important information about the prolonged use of opioid pain medication, which includes not only strong analgesic effects but also side effects such as constipation. Opioids, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, can cause reduced bowel motility, leading to constipation. Therefore, it is advised to concurrently use a stool softener and a stimulant laxative to prevent or treat this common side effect. The nurse's role is to educate the client on the benefits of preventative measures to avoid discomfort and possible complications associated with opioid-induced constipation.