Which is not a true statement about elimination in older adults?
a. Defecation less than once per day is not necessarily constipation.
b. Mineral oil is recommended as a laxative for the older adult.
c. Altered cognitive status, increased agitation, and unexplained falls can be symp-toms of constipation.
d. Leaking liquid feces should not be treated as diarrhea.
B
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A Incorrect. This statement is true. Constipation is present when there are fewer than three bowel movements per week or when the frequency decreases.
B Correct. This statement is not true. Mineral oil and saline laxatives can be harmful. Fiber, fruit, and fluids are recommended first; stimulant laxatives such as senna and cascara can be used on a short-term basis.
C Incorrect. This statement is true. These behaviors may be the only clinical symptom of constipation in cognitively impaired older persons.
D Incorrect. This statement is true. Liquid feces may be leaking around a fecal impaction, and antidiarrheal treatment can aggravate the impaction.
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