Question

A 60-year-old hypertensive man presents with constipation; he states that he has not had a single bowel movement in the past 2 days. 1 month ago, he had a myocardial infarction, but he is now stable and is on a low-fat, low-salt diet. He He refuses a docusate sodium enema and is prescribed docusate tablets.

What precaution should the patient take while using this laxative?

1. He should not use it long-term
2. It should be consumed with fruit juice only
3. He will have to increase his salt intake for the docusate to be effective
4. He should also consume mineral oil for the docusate to be effective
5. He may get dehydrated while using docusate

Answer 1

The patient should take precautions against potential dehydration while using docusate tablets. Long-term use is discouraged to prevent dependency and ensure the colon's natural function is maintained.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient prescribed docusate tablets for constipation should be aware of potential dehydration, which is a common precaution with many laxatives.

Docusate is a stool softener that helps to moisten the stool to make bowel movements easier. Given the patient's history of hypertension and recent myocardial infarction, it's crucial for him to not use this laxative for long-term relief (long-term use) because overuse can lead to dependency and affect the colon's natural ability to function. Additionally, there is no need to increase his salt intake or to consume mineral oil for the docusate to be effective, and it does not have to be consumed with fruit juice only.