What would be the most effective action of the nurse when assisting an 85-year-old adult with weak abdominal muscles to defecate?
a. Encourage the use of a bedpan before getting up in the morning.
b. Place a footstool under the feet of the patient when seated on the toilet.
c. Insert a finger in the patient's rectum to stimulate the urge to defecate.
d. Instruct the patient to do isometric exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles.
ANS: B
Placement of a stool under the patient's feet increases intra-abdominal pressure and encourages bearing down (Valsalva maneuver) to accomplish defecation.
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