Question 1

Which of the following is true of opioid/synthetic opioid medications for diarrhea?

Accepted Answer

All of the statements listed are true of opioid/synthetic opioid medications for diarrhea. They are available only by prescription, they inhibit gastrointestinal motility, decrease hyperperistalsis, and allow the reabsorption of water and electrolytes. Their side effects may include agitation, tachycardia, drowsiness, and dryness of the mouth. Examples of opioid/synthetic opioid medications for diarrhea include paregoric and diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil).

Question 2

Indiscriminate laxative use may lead to

Accepted Answer

Indiscriminate laxative use can lead to dependence as the bowel becomes less responsive to stimuli without the aid of laxatives. It can also cause loss of potassium, as laxatives can lead to excessive elimination of potassium through the stool. This loss of potassium can then lead to cardiac irregularities, as potassium is crucial for proper heart function. Therefore, all of the options listed are potential consequences of indiscriminate laxative use.

Question 3

Which of the following is true about diarrhea?

Accepted Answer

All of the statements are true. Management of diarrhea depends on finding the underlying cause, which can be contaminated or spoiled food, bacterial infections, or nervous conditions. Diarrhea is usually self-limiting, but chronic diarrhea should be evaluated for its cause. Diarrhea in children can lead to dehydration, which is a medical emergency.

Question 4

Which of the following is true of adsorbents used to treat diarrhea?

Accepted Answer

Adsorbents used to treat diarrhea include activated charcoal, bismuth salts, kaolin, and pectin. They act by binding to and removing toxins and other irritants that cause diarrhea. They are not absorbed into the body and are typically excreted with the stool. They are taken after each loose stool until diarrhea resolves.

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT true of laxatives and cathartics?

Accepted Answer

It is not necessarily true that people need a bowel movement per day. Bowel movement frequency can vary based on individual factors such as diet, age, and medical conditions. It is important for individuals to listen to their bodies and not rely on laxatives and cathartics to force bowel movements.

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT true of stool softeners?

Accepted Answer

Stool softeners work by either lubricating the rectum or increasing stool bulk to make it easier to pass. However, they do not have any direct relationship with water absorption. The other statements are true about stool softeners.

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT true of anorexiants?

Accepted Answer

Anorexiants are not effective for long-term weight loss on their own. They are typically used in conjunction with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Over time, their effectiveness can decrease as the body develops tolerance.

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT true about taking medications for motion sickness?

Accepted Answer

Medications for motion sickness are most effective when taken before symptoms occur, so option B is incorrect. Options A, C, D, and E are all true about taking medications for motion sickness.

Question 9

Which of the following is NOT true about constipation in older adults?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following is NOT true...

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT true of stimulant laxatives?

Accepted Answer

Stimulant laxatives typically work within 6-10 hours, so they do not require 10 to 12 hours to work.

Question 11

Which of the following is NOT true of bowel evacuants?

Accepted Answer

Bowel evacuants are not typically used for normal constipation; they are primarily used for bowel preparation before procedures like colonoscopies.

Question 12

Which of the following must be considered in administering stimulant laxatives?

Accepted Answer

All of the statements are true and must be considered when administering stimulant laxatives. It is important to inform the patient that cascara sagrada may discolor urine, and tablets should not be crushed or chewed due to stomach irritation. Additionally, stimulant laxatives should not be taken with milk or antacids as it may decrease their effectiveness.

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT true of syrup of ipecac?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following is NOT true...

Question 14

In laxative abuse, the patient must

Accepted Answer

To overcome laxative abuse, patients need to go through bowel-retraining programs that involve making changes in their lifestyle and diet. Stopping laxatives abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and further complications. Therefore, options b and c are the best choices.

Question 15

Which of the following is true of lubricant laxatives?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following is true of...

Question 16

Which of the following is NOT true of osmotic saline laxatives?

Accepted Answer

Osmotic saline laxatives work by increasing the amount of water in the large intestines and feces. Milk of magnesia is an example of an osmotic saline laxative. They may be dangerous for persons with heart disease and hypertension because of the fluid retention. Cephulac contains fructose and lactose and should be used with care for persons with diabetes. However, option E is not true because the amount of water replacement is significant and affects the effectiveness of the medication.

Question 17

Which of the following is NOT true of bulk-forming laxatives?

Accepted Answer

Bulk-forming laxatives do not interfere with food absorption. Instead, they work by absorbing water and increasing bulk in the intestines to stimulate bowel movements.

Question 18

Which of the following is important when administering syrup of ipecac?

Accepted Answer

It is important to check with the Poison Control Center before administering syrup of ipecac to determine if it is the appropriate course of action. Syrup of ipecac should be followed by a full 8-ounce glass of water to induce vomiting, but carbonated beverages should not be used as they can increase the risk of vomiting forcefully and damaging the esophagus. Therefore, both choices A and B are important.

Question 19

Which of the following is NOT true about antiflatulents?

Accepted Answer

This statement is not true. Antiflatulents have relatively few side effects and are considered safe for most people to use. However, as with any medication, they should be used as directed and with caution by people with certain pre-existing medical conditions.

Question 20

Which of the following are indications for laxative use?

Accepted Answer

Laxatives are indicated for use in emptying the intestines prior to diagnostic testing, following the administration of anthelmintic medications, and for certain medical conditions. However, laxative use is typically not recommended for constipation that has only been present for 2 days with abdominal cramping and nausea. Instead, lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter treatments such as stool softeners or enemas may be recommended first.

Quiz 24: Gastrointestinal System Disorders