A nurse is teaching a client who is about to start taking dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (Colace). The nurse should make sure that the client understands that this medication should result in which of the following?

Choice A rationale Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, or docusate sodium, is a stool softener that works by lowering the surface tension of stool, allowing water and lipids to penetrate the fecal mass more easily. This action helps to soften the stool and ease its passage, promoting regular bowel movements, not decreasing the frequency of diarrhea, which is already characterized by loose stools. Choice B rationale Docusate sodium is a type of laxative and is not indicated or effective for the relief of nausea. Nausea is a symptom of many underlying conditions and is treated with antiemetic medications. The mechanism of action for stool softeners relates purely to water absorption and softening the stool in the large intestine. Choice C rationale Docusate sodium works to prevent constipation and facilitate easier bowel elimination by softening the stool, thereby promoting more frequent and comfortable defecation. The intended effect is an increase in the ease and regularity of bowel movements, not a decrease in the number of bowel movements, which would be an undesirable outcome. Choice D rationale As a stool softener, the intended therapeutic effect of docusate sodium is to make bowel movements easier and more consistent. By drawing water into the stool, it prevents the formation of hard, dry stools that cause constipation, thereby achieving the desired outcome of regular, soft, and easily passed bowel movements without stimulating peristalsis.