NURS 1556 Clinical Medication Worksheet

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Stimulant
Sennosides Senna Laxative 187 mg PO 1 BID

Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions
unknown 6-12 hr 3-4 days N/A

Mechanism of action and indications: Nursing Implications (what to focus on):

(Why med ordered)
Alters water and electrolyte transport in the large
intestine, resulting in accumulation of water and
increased peristalsis. Laxative action
For Constipation- especially with constipating drugs.
Contraindications/warnings/interactions- Hypersensitivity;
Abdominal pain of unknown cause, especially if with
fever; Rectal fissures; ulcerated hemorrhoids.
Common side effects:
GI: cramping, diarrhea, nausea. GU: pink- red or brown-
black discoloration of urine. F and E: electrolyte
abnormalities (chronic use or dependence). Misc: laxative
dependence.

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically):
May decrease absorption of other orally administered
drugs because of increased transit time.
Interacts with MOM, Dulcolax.
Lab value alterations caused by medicine:
May change color of urine. Long term use may cause
electrolyte imbalance.
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication:
Take with full glass of water. Take at bedtime for
evacuation 6-12 hrs later. Avoid straining with bowel
movements.

Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation

(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med?
VS, bowel sounds, assess for abdominal Diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal Pt should have a soft, formed
distention. Assess color, consistency, and cramps, abdominal distention with bowel movement.
amount of stool produced. N/V and/ or fever.