Medication Information:
Trade/generic name/IV: _Colace/ docusate sodium__Classification: _ Gastrointestinal agent, hyper osmotic laxative, emolient_
Antidote: ____________________________ Action: Acts by lowering the surface tension of the feces and promoting penetration by
water and fat, thus increasing the softeness of the fecal mass. Not absorb systematically and does not seem to interfere with the
adsorption of nutrient. A microenema formulation is available for clients aged 3 and older
Uses:
Recommended route: PO ____ SQ _X_IM ____ IV____SL____ GTTS________OTHER _____
Client’s dose: 300 mg p o everyday _____ I Drug nteractions/ Contraindicated Yes: _X__No _____
Hypersensitivity. Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, especially when associated with fever of other signs of an acute abdomen.
Excessive or prolonged use may lead to dependence.
.
Reason for Medication: __ constipation __
Pertinent factors r/t med administration: Allergies Other _______________ w/s Foods?
Pulse Ox ___B/P _______Apical pulse ________; Tube Placement ________ HOB ______
Pertinent Lab studies/effects on lab results: ____None__________
Common Side Effects: __ Diarrhea, rectal bleeding, stomach pain, nausea______
Common Adverse Reactions: __none____
Nursing Considerations: __see nursing considerations for laxatives__
Client/Family/SO/Caregiver Teaching: 1. Drink sufficient fluids with each dose and increase fluid intake during the day. 2.
Increasing fluids and consuming more dietary fiber. 3. prolonged use may lead to laxative dependence.
