Several hospitalized clients have an order for a laxative as needed for constipation. To which client would the nurse expect to administer a laxative?
1. A client who had a bowel movement yesterday and one the day before but not yet today
2. A client who has not had a bowel movement in 4 days
3. A client who did not have a bowel movement today, but had one yesterday
4. A client who has daily bowel movements that are formed
Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: This client is not likely to have constipation, as the definition of constipation is two or fewer bowel movements per week.
Rationale 2: This client is likely constipated, as the definition of constipation is two or fewer bowel movements per week.
Rationale 3: This client is not likely to have constipation, as the definition of constipation is two or fewer bowel movements per week.
Rationale 4: This client is not likely to have constipation, as the definition of constipation is two or fewer bowel movements per week.
Global Rationale: The client most in need of a laxative is the one who has not had a bowel movement in four days. The other clients are experiencing more frequent bowel movements.
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