An older client tells the nurse that in order to have a daily bowel movement, the client uses laxatives most days of the week. What should the nurse tell this client?
1. Normal patterns of elimination are different for everyone.
2. Increase fiber intake to 20–35 grams a day.
3. Engage in enjoyable exercise.
4. Ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
5. Drink six to eight glasses of fluid daily.
Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 5
Rationale 1: Older adults should be advised that normal patterns of bowel elimination vary considerably. For some, a normal pattern might be every other day; for others, twice a day.
Rationale 2: Constipation can be relieved by increasing the fiber intake to 20–35 grams per day.
Rationale 3: Adequate exercise is a preventative measure for constipation.
Rationale 4: Responding to the gastrocolic reflex, and not ignoring it, also helps with constipation.
Rationale 5: Daily fluid intake of six to eight glasses is an essential preventive measure for constipation.
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