Patient was educated on how to take Mineral Oil as follows:
- Take the Mineral Oil by measuring it with a proper measuring spoon to avoid overdosing on the medication.
- Mineral Oil is usually taken on an empty stomach, 2 hours before the dinner, as the Mineral Oil impairs absorption of essential nutrients and vitamins. Taking Mineral Oil on empty stomach can trigger nauseating sensation with feeling of vomiting. So, mix the Mineral Oil thoroughly in a cup with about one oz. of water or fruit juice before drinking it. Drink one more oz. of water after swallowing the Mineral Oil, to wash it down to the site where it acts, the intestines.
- Mineral Oil takes about 8 hours to cause bowel movement. Usually, it is taken on an empty stomach, 2 hours before the dinner.
- Do not take the Mineral Oil close to bedtime. Individuals with poor muscle control on swallowing, such as, senior citizens, stroke victims, and individuals who underwent any surgeries of the brain and neck, are prone to aspirate with Mineral Oil, especially in lying down positions.
- Take the Mineral Oil at the same time every day, to avoid forgetting the medication.
- Maintain strict compliance with intake of the medication as ordered, with regards to dosage and frequency, to derive the benefit of the medication.
- Do not overdose on the Mineral Oil to increase the ease of having a bowel movement.
- Do not change the dose on Mineral Oil without consulting your doctor.
- Space Mineral Oil out by at least 2 hours from other medications, as they reduce the absorption of prescription medications.
- If you miss a dose, try taking it at the earliest notice of noncompliance. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the dose scheduled. Do not take an extra dose to try making up for the missed dose.
