The nurse collaborates with the client to promote effective bowel elimination. Which does the nurse include for a daily plan of care? (Select all that apply.)

Question

1. Eating a high-protein diet
2. Alternating rest and exercise
3. Inserting rectal suppositories
4. Using bulk-forming laxatives
5. Following a consistent routine
6. Drinking 4 glasses of water daily

Answer 1

4, 5, 6
4. The nurse encourages the client to use bulk-forming laxatives to facilitate passage of stool through the bowel. These laxatives include high-fiber agents such as cellulose and are the only laxatives recommended for daily use.
5. Following a consistent bowel routine is an important part of effective bowel eli-mination and helps to prevent constipation. A bowel routine involves following a consistent pattern of activities focused on facilitating a bowel movement and includes activities such as going to the bathroom to read the newspaper every morning after a cup of coffee; taking a morning walk, eating breakfast, and using the bathroom be-fore showering; or having prune juice with the evening meal.
6. Adequate hydration is essential for easing passage of stool through the bowel be-cause dry stool is hard, absorbs intestinal moisture, and thereby removes the bowel's natural lubrication for stool movement.
1. A high-protein diet contains less fiber than a well-balanced diet and inhibits regular bowel habits.
2. To be an effective part of a daily bowel routine, the client exercises consistently from day to day.
3. Rectal suppositories with or without medication can stimulate the colon to eva-cuate the bowel. Use of suppositories is reserved for therapeutic reasons and the client should avoid using suppositories on a regular basis.