Certified Hospice and Palliative Assistant (CHPNA) Practice Test

Which treatment is generally required for opioid-induced constipation?

1. Dietary fiber only

2. Stool softener and stimulant laxative daily

3. Increased fluid intake only

4. High-calorie diet

The correct answer is: Stool softener and stimulant laxative daily

Opioid-induced constipation is a common side effect of opioid medications, which lead to a slowdown in gastrointestinal motility. The management of this condition often requires a proactive treatment approach. The recommended treatment typically includes both a stool softener and a stimulant laxative taken daily. The stool softener works by increasing the water content in the intestines, making stools easier to pass, while the stimulant laxative enhances bowel contractions and encourages movement of stool through the intestines. This combination is particularly effective because it addresses the multifaceted nature of opioid-induced constipation by softening the stool as well as promoting regular bowel movements. Regular use is important for consistent relief, given that opioids can create an ongoing need for management. In contrast, relying solely on dietary fiber may not be sufficient as fiber needs adequate fluid intake to be effective, and increasing fiber intake alone can sometimes worsen constipation if fluid intake doesn't follow it. Increasing fluid intake alone may also not provide the necessary intervention to stimulate bowel movements effectively. A high-calorie diet is not a treatment for constipation; it may even contribute to weight gain without addressing the bowel regularity that opioid users desperately need. Therefore, the combination of a stool softener and a stimulant laxative is the most appropriate and effective treatment