A client is receiving an opioid analgesic following abdominal surgery. The client has been out of bed to the chair and is encouraged to ambulate with assistance. The nurse is also encouraging the client to increase his fluids
He reports that his appetite is good and he has been finishing most of his meals. His bowel sounds are active but he is having difficulty passing stools. A laxative is ordered. Which nursing diagnosis would be most appropriate?
A) Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements
B) Constipation
C) Risk for Injury
D) Deficient Knowledge
Ans: B
Feedback:
The client is most likely experiencing constipation from the opioid therapy as well as from the lack of ambulation and activity. The client is eating, so imbalanced nutrition is not necessarily a problem. He is at risk for injury if he is experiencing adverse reactions related to the opioid therapy, but this is not apparent. Although he may have deficient knowledge about the drug, this, too, is not seen in this case.
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