South Dakota Medication Aide Practice Test

Bulk forming laxatives are primarily used to increase fecal bulk. They work by absorbing water in the intestines to form a gelatinous mass, which adds bulk to the stool. This increased bulk stimulates the bowel to contract and move, promoting natural bowel movements. The primary action of these laxatives is to mimic the effects of dietary fiber, making the stool softer and easier to pass over time without causing dependency on laxatives.

The other options describe mechanisms of action associated with different types of laxatives. For example, drawing water into the intestine is characteristic of osmotic laxatives, which help hydrate the stool. Stimulating intestinal peristalsis directly is typical for stimulant laxatives, which provoke bowel movements through direct irritation of the intestine. Softeners are often associated with stool softeners, which help to mix water into the stool but don’t necessarily increase bulk. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the role of bulk forming laxatives in enhancing stool bulk, contributing to regular and comfortable bowel movements.