A client is prescribed medication for a psychiatric disorder. After 3 days, the client tells the nurse that he has been constipated. Which instruction would the nurse give the client?
A) "You need to eat more high-protein foods such as meat and peanut butter."
B) "You need to eat more fruits and vegetables and drink more water."
C) "Ask your psychiatrist to prescribe a stool softener for you."
D) "This side effect should disappear within a week or so."
Ans: B
The nurse should instruct the client to increase fiber and fluid intake. A mild laxative, exercise, and fiber supplement such as Metamucil also may help the client's constipation. High-protein foods would have no effect on constipation. Stool softeners may be appropriate if an increase in fiber and fluids is ineffective. The side effect will not necessarily disappear.
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