An older resident is complaining of being constipated. Which action should the nurse take first when caring for this patient?
1. Assess the diet for adequacy of fiber and fluids.
2. Determine what the patient means by constipation.
3. Obtain an order for a laxative and an enema if needed.
4. Encourage the patient to increase fluid intake and activity.
2. Determine what the patient means by constipation.
Explanation: 1. Assessing the diet for adequacy of fiber and fluids might be appropriate after the nurse determines how the patient defines constipation.
2. The nurse should first carefully evaluate the patient's concern and question the person as to what is considered as being constipation. Determining the patient's normal frequency of bowel movement, consistency of stool, and effort in passing stool is important before deciding to act.
3. Obtaining an order for a laxative and enema might be appropriate after the nurse determines how the patient defines constipation.
4. Encouraging the patient to increase fluid intake and activity might be appropriate after the nurse determines how the patient defines constipation.
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