An older adult patient reports episodes of fecal incontinence. The nurse provides appropriate emotional support when assuring the patient that
a. it is a common problem that occurs in re-sponse to normal aging.
b. the incontinence is rarely a result of a se-rious problem.
c. disposable absorbent underwear will help manage the problem.
d. the problem generally responds well to bowel control programs.
D
It is important to reassure older patients that control and retraining are achievable because many older adults believe that fecal incontinence is the first step on the road to permanent institutiona-lization. Disposable garments may be used temporarily or long term if the patient cannot com-plete bowel retraining. It is not a normal response to aging.
You might also like to view...
A client in labor is agitated and nervous about the birth of her child. The nurse explains to the client that fear and anxiety cause the release of certain compounds that can prolong labor. Which of the following is the nurse referring to?
A) Prostaglandins B) Catecholamines C) Oxytocin D) Relaxin
When performing a skin assessment, the nurse notes several angiomas on the chest of an older patient. Which action should the nurse take next?
a. Assess the patient for evidence of liver disease. b. Discuss the adverse effects of sun exposure on the skin. c. Teach the patient about possible skin changes with aging. d. Suggest that the patient make an appointment with a dermatologist.
The nurse is weighing and measuring a baby in the clinic. The baby is 6 months old. Which of the following findings are considered normal for this age?
a. The baby can turn completely over b. The baby is unable to bring a cup to his or her lips c. The baby can sit without support for extended amounts of time d. The baby has tripled the birth weight
Which outcome is realistic for a patient with stage 1 Alzheimer's disease?
a. Caregiver will assume role of decision maker for patient to reduce stress. b. The patient will maintain the highest possible functional level to preserve auton-omy. c. Arrangements will be made for appropriate long-term placement to minimize risk of injury. d. The patient will retain full physical functioning through cognitive and occupa-tional therapies.