The bulk laxative Metamucil is prescribed for a patient with chronic constipation. In teaching the patient about the use of the drug, the nurse stresses that

Question

The bulk laxative Metamucil is prescribed for a patient with chronic constipation.  In teaching the patient about the use of the drug, the nurse stresses that

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Bulk-forming laxatives like Metamucil (psyllium) absorb water, swell, and increase stool bulk and moisture, so they require adequate fluid intake to work safely and effectively.

1) Relevant knowledge points and concepts
- Mechanism: Psyllium is a soluble fiber that forms a gel when it absorbs water; this increases stool size and stimulates peristalsis.  
- Clinical implication: Without enough fluid, the fiber can become thick and pasty and may cause esophageal or intestinal impaction/obstruction.  
- Side effects: Common: bloating, gas, abdominal cramping; serious: obstruction if taken dry or with inadequate fluids. Psyllium does not block absorption of fat‑soluble vitamins; that concern applies more to long-term mineral oil use.

2) Step‑by‑step reasoning
- Metamucil must be mixed with liquid and swallowed; the therapeutic action depends on hydration of the fiber.  
- If insufficient fluid is present, the fiber will not hydrate properly and can aggregate, risking obstruction.  
- Therefore patient teaching must emphasize drinking large/adequate amounts of fluid whenever taking psyllium.

3) Calculations/intermediate steps
- No numerical calculations are required for this concept. Practical guidance: each dose is typically taken with a full glass (about 8 oz) of water and additional fluids during the day to ensure effective softening and transit.

4) Why the correct answer is correct
- "Large amounts of fluid should be taken to prevent impaction or bowel obstruction" directly follows from the drug’s water‑absorbing, gelling mechanism and well‑documented risk of impaction if taken without adequate fluid.

5) Why the other options are incorrect
- Option 1 (completely safe/no side effects): Incorrect—there are side effects (gas, cramping) and a risk of obstruction.  
- Option 3 (eliminate dietary fiber): Incorrect—dietary fiber is beneficial; you would not remove fiber; Metamucil supplements fiber.  
- Option 4 (blocks fat‑soluble vitamin absorption): Incorrect—psyllium does not block fat‑soluble vitamin absorption; that concern is associated with long‑term mineral oil.

6) Conclusion
- The correct teaching point is that large amounts of fluid should be taken to prevent impaction or bowel obstruction, which matches the provided answer.

The bulk laxative Metamucil is prescribed for a patient with chronic constipation. In teaching the patient about the use of the drug, the nurse stresses that Single choice

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