Nurses need to understand how the medication works and also when the patient will get the maximum benefit. Many of these can be treated at the same time the medication is started. Start a bowel program immediately. Start with a stool softener such as DDS mg 1-2 tablets daily and increase as needed. Instruct patient to increase fluid intake.
Nausea is another common side effect.
Instruct the patient that for many pain medications this is a normal occurrence and usually diminishes with use. If nausea continues an anti-emetic can be used. Label then appropriately and if elderly or visually impaired mark bottles in dark bold letters. Fear is an issue that is often overlooked. Some patients think that because they are at home and continue with their activity of daily living no one believes they have pain and will effectively treat them.