Practice Question
Which information will the nurse include in the teaching of an older client who is experiencing constipation? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct.
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Correct Answer:
Consume at least 2000 mL of fluid daily
Rationale:
Consume at least 2000 mL of fluid daily
🟡 Adequate hydration keeps stool soft and easier to pass by improving water content within the colon.
🟡 Older adults have a reduced thirst sensation, so setting scheduled sips helps meet fluid goals.
🟡 Aim for ~2 liters/day unless fluid-restricted (e.g., heart failure, renal disease); clarify any provider limits.
🟡 Warm fluids in the morning can stimulate the gastrocolic reflex, promoting a timely bowel movement.
🟡 Pairing fluids with dietary fiber prevents fiber from hardening the stool and reduces constipation risk.
Increase fresh fruits and vegetables into the diet
🟡 Fruits/vegetables provide soluble and insoluble fiber, which add bulk, retain water, and stimulate peristalsis.
🟡 Increase fiber gradually to limit bloating and gas, while monitoring bowel patterns.
🟡 Whole fruits (e.g., prunes, pears, berries) are more effective than juices due to higher fiber content.
🟡 Most adults benefit from 25–30 g/day of total fiber, adjusted to tolerance and comorbidities.
🟡 Combining fiber with adequate fluids optimizes stool softness and frequency.
Explain the risks of overusing laxatives
🟡 Chronic laxative overuse can cause dependence and reduce the colon’s natural motility (cathartic colon).
🟡 It may lead to electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia) that worsen constipation and cause weakness.
🟡 Overuse can impair fluid balance, increasing fall and dehydration risks in older adults.
🟡 Prefer bulk-forming agents and stool softeners first, reserving stimulants for short-term, targeted use.
🟡 Teach to use the lowest effective dose, for the shortest duration, with provider guidance.
Incorporate walking after meals
🟡 Light post-meal ambulation harnesses the gastrocolic reflex, naturally prompting a bowel movement.
🟡 Physical activity increases peristalsis, reducing colonic transit time and stool drying.
🟡 A routine of 10–30 minutes after meals is realistic and supports regularity without straining.
🟡 Build gradually, considering balance and fall risk, and use assistive devices if prescribed.
🟡 Pair activity with hydration and fiber for a synergistic constipation-prevention plan.
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This question is from Gerontology Exam 1 which contains 46 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: Examplify Exam(s)
- Domain: Health Assessment
- Answer Choices: 5