An elderly patient tells the nurse that he has been experiencing constipation, which is new since he never had this problem when he was younger. Which of the following should the nurse instruct this patient?

Question

1. Your doctor can prescribe medications to help eliminate this problem.
2. Be sure to take in high fiber foods, get some exercise, and drink fluids to help this problem.
3. Restricting fluids will help this problem.
4. Rest and relaxation will help eliminate this problem.

Answer 1

2

Rationale: As a person ages, the muscles of the colon lose tone and lead to a decrease in stool transit time. Nursing interventions to assist with this patient's problem would include ingesting high fiber foods, increasing activity or exercise, and drinking fluids. The nurse should not suggest to the patient that the physician should prescribe medications to treat the constipation since this could make the problem worse over time. Restricting fluids will make the problem worse. Rest and relaxation could also make the problem worse. Inactivity adds to constipation and the nurse should instruct the patient to increase activity.