· Use Canva.com or other infographic development tool of your choice to create a patient teaching aid about over-the-counter treatments for constipation.
2. Include the following sections/headings. You do not have to use these exact words for headings, but they should be labeled in a way that is very clear to your instructor of which topic you are addressing.
· When should a laxative be used?
· Classification/Types (Bulk, Osmotic, Stimulant, Surfactant)
· How each type works
· Examples of each
· When should each laxative type be considered?
· When would each laxative type be contraindicated?
3. Caution of laxative overuse
· Symptoms of laxative overuse
· Long-term health risks of laxative overuse
· Who is at risk?
· Possible referrals
4. Format
· Readability
· Lay language for patients
· Creativity
· The format should not match the layout shown in the example image. Be creative.
· Reference(s)
· References used should be noted at the bottom of your infographic in a smaller font as not to distract from information provided but also validating the information came from a reliable source.
· References should be from either your textbook or a professional source such as American Gastroenterological AssociationLinks to an external site., Prescriber’s Digital Reference, etc. References should not be from sources such as MayoClinic, WebMD, etc. Additionally, avoid use of journal articles for this assignment as you are looking for a more global consensus than that of one journal article.
5. Screen shot
· Provide a screen shot of your infographic in Canva or other platform of your choice.
· Make sure to highlight in some manner the day and time your infographic was created like the image below.
· The infographic you submit should match the screen shot you submit with your assignment.
· Of course, the date your infographic is created should also coincide with the session of your submission
**Patient Teaching Aid: Over-the-Counter Treatments for Constipation**
**1. When should a laxative be used?**
– Laxatives are used to relieve constipation when dietary and lifestyle changes are insufficient.
– They can be used for short-term relief but should not be used as a long-term solution.
**2. Classification/Types**
– **Bulk Laxatives**: Increase stool bulk, stimulating bowel movements.
– **Osmotic Laxatives**: Draw water into the intestines to soften stool.
– **Stimulant Laxatives**: Stimulate intestinal contractions to promote bowel movements.
– **Surfactant Laxatives**: Lower surface tension of stool, making it easier to pass.
**3. How each type works**
– **Bulk Laxatives**: Absorb water, swelling in the intestines, and encouraging bowel movements.
– **Osmotic Laxatives**: Draw water into the intestines, softening stool and promoting bowel movements.
– **Stimulant Laxatives**: Increase intestinal contractions, speeding up bowel movements.
– **Surfactant Laxatives**: Lower surface tension of stool, making it easier to pass.
**4. Examples of each**
– **Bulk Laxatives**: Psyllium (Metamucil), Methylcellulose (Citrucel)
– **Osmotic Laxatives**: Polyethylene glycol (Miralax), Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)
– **Stimulant Laxatives**: Senna (Senokot), Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
– **Surfactant Laxatives**: Docusate (Colace), Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DSS)
**5. When should each laxative type be considered?**
– **Bulk Laxatives**: Safe for daily use, suitable for mild constipation.
– **Osmotic Laxatives**: Helpful for occasional constipation, particularly in elderly patients or those with limited mobility.
– **Stimulant Laxatives**: Reserved for severe constipation or when other options fail.
– **Surfactant Laxatives**: Useful for individuals with hard stools or difficulty passing stool.
**6. When would each laxative type be contraindicated?**
– **Bulk Laxatives**: Contraindicated in patients with intestinal blockage or fecal impaction.
– **Osmotic Laxatives**: Contraindicated in patients with kidney disease or electrolyte imbalances.
– **Stimulant Laxatives**: Contraindicated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease or intestinal obstruction.
– **Surfactant Laxatives**: Generally safe but may cause cramping or diarrhea in some individuals.
**7. Caution of laxative overuse**
– **Symptoms of laxative overuse**: Diarrhea, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, dependence on laxatives for bowel movements.
– **Long-term health risks**: Bowel function impairment, colon damage, nutrient malabsorption.
– **Who is at risk?**: Individuals with eating disorders, chronic constipation, or misuse of laxatives.
– **Possible referrals**: Gastroenterologist, dietitian, or mental health professional for comprehensive care.
**8. Format**
– **Readability**: Clear, concise language for easy understanding.
– **Lay language for patients**: Avoid medical jargon and explain concepts in everyday terms.
– **Creativity**: Engaging design to capture attention and facilitate learning.
– **References**: American Gastroenterological Association, Prescriber’s Digital Reference.
**References**:
– American Gastroenterological Association. (n.d.). Understanding Constipation. https://gastro.org/practice-guidance/gi-patient-center/topic/constipation/
– Prescriber’s Digital Reference. (2023). Laxatives. https://www.pdr.net/guides/therapeutic/constipation/laxatives-27
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