A woman with a high-risk pregnancy with triplets is in preterm labor; she is on strict bedrest for 5 days. During this time, she has not had a bowel movement, although she normally passes stool daily. She describes feeling bloated and uncomfortable
What information should the nurse give the patient when explaining constipation?
a. Immobility often causes constipation.
b. A stool softener daily will relieve the problem.
c. Use of a bedpan results in bloating and constipation.
d. A low-fiber diet will resolve the problem.
A
Immobility slows peristalsis, which leads to constipation, gas, and difficulty evacuating stools from the rectum. Increasing fiber in the diet often prevents constipation. A stool softener may be ordered if other measures are unsuccessful. Some people do find use of a bedpan difficult.
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