An elderly client states that he is having problems with constipation. An appropriate response for the nurse to make would be?
1. "Can you tell me about your normal bowel habits and the changes you are experiencing at this time?"
2. "Don't worry; constipation is an expected problem that occurs with aging.".
3. "You should probably increase the amount of fiber in your diet.".
4. "I would recommend that you drink more water.".
1
Rationale: Although an increase in both fiber and fluid intake can be beneficial when dealing with constipation, it is first important to gather data to determine if the patient is experiencing a change in their bowel pattern. Chronic constipation is more likely in older adults than in younger adults despite the fact that there is little change in colon transit time with age. Increasing fiber and fluids are interventions that can help to alleviate constipation, but it is necessary to first determine what changes the client is experiencing.
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