A nurse teaches a health education class for older adults about constipation. Which of the following points should the nurse stress?
A) Older adults who do not have a daily bowel movement should use a laxative.
B) Older adults should limit their intake of high-fiber foods because of a risk of lactose intolerance.
C) If older adults need a medication to promote bowel regularity, a laxative or enema should be given.
D) If older adults need a medication to promote bowel regularity, a bulk-forming agent is needed daily.
Ans: D
A bulk-forming agent is least likely to have detrimental effects; providing fluid intake is adequate, if a medication is needed to promote regular bowel elimination. If at all possible, older adults should avoid laxatives. Older adults should include several portions of high-fiber foods in their daily diet.
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