A patient will undergo a colonoscopy, and the provider has ordered sodium phosphate as a bowel cleanser before the procedure. The nurse reviews the patient's chart and notes that the patient's creatinine clearance and blood urea nitrogen are both elevated. What will the nurse do?
A) Reduce the amount of fluid given with the laxative to prevent fluid retention.
B) Request an order to give polyethylene glycol and electrolytes (PEG-ELS) instead.
C) Suggest that the patient reduce the dietary sodium intake.
D) Suggest using a suppository laxative instead.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

PEG-ELS solutions provide an isosmotic solution and do not cause dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. They are safe to use in patients with renal impairment or cardiovascular disease. This patient's laboratory values suggest renal impairment. Sodium phosphate products can cause kidney damage; giving them with less fluid only increases this possibility. Reducing the dietary intake of sodium is not recommended. Suppositories are not effective bowel cleansing agents.

A Patient Will Undergo a Colonoscopy, and the Provider Has