Question

Select all that apply: To decrease Mrs. Porter's problems with constipation, the nurse encourages her to: A. Avoid frequent use of laxatives. B. Decrease fluids. C. Increase fiber in her diet. D. Decrease her level of physical activity.

Short answer

The correct options are A 'Avoid frequent use of laxatives' and C 'Increase fiber in her diet'.

Step-by-step solution

- Understand the problem

Mrs. Porter is faced with issues of constipation. The person answering needs to know what lifestyle changes can help in reducing constipation.

- Analyze the Options

Look at each of the options and think about if it would help or worsen the condition of constipation.\nA. Avoid frequent use of laxatives - This option can be correct because frequent use of laxatives can disrupt the natural bowel movements and makes the body reliant on them.\nB. Decrease fluids - This option can worsen constipation as adequate fluid intake aids in bowel movements.\nC. Increase fiber in her diet - This option is correct as dietary fiber helps in enhancing the weight and size of the stool and softens it.\nD. Decrease her level of physical activity - This option can worsen constipation as physical activity helps in accelerating the speed at which food moves through the large intestine thus limiting the amount of water absorbed from the stool into the body. The stool remains soft and passes more quickly.

- Select the Correct Options

Based on the analysis from Step 2, option A 'Avoid frequent use of laxatives' and option C 'Increase fiber in her diet' are correct measures to decrease Mrs. Porter's problem with constipation.

Key concepts

Constipation Management

Constipation management is crucial in maintaining proper gastrointestinal health. It involves strategies to prevent or alleviate constipation, which can be uncomfortable and potentially lead to more severe health issues. Primary methods include:

• Increasing dietary fiber, which aids in stool bulk and mobility.
• Ensuring adequate fluid intake, which softens stools and helps them pass more easily.
• Encouraging regular physical activity, which stimulates intestinal muscle contractions.
• Limiting the use of laxatives to prevent dependency and maintain the natural bowel movement rhythm.

Addressing these factors can significantly improve bowel function and overall well-being.

NCLEX-RN Review

The NCLEX-RN exam is an essential step for nursing students as it assesses their readiness to practice nursing safely and effectively. One of the key categories evaluated is safe and effective care environment, which includes understanding patient management strategies like constipation management. To excel in this section, review questions related to:

• Best practices in patient care for gastrointestinal health.
• Lifestyle modifications that prevent constipation.
• Recognizing signs and symptoms of constipation.
• Implementing interventions that are both safe and effective for patients.

Paying attention to these areas can help in mastering the NCLEX-RN exam content efficiently.

Nursing Interventions

Nursing interventions play a pivotal role in managing constipation effectively. These are actions or strategies that nurses implement to improve patient outcomes. Key interventions for constipation include:

• Educating patients on the importance of a fiber-rich diet.
• Advising on adequate hydration to assist in stool softening.
• Encouraging consistent physical activity to enhance bowel movements.
• Monitoring patient bowel habits to identify any changes or issues early.
• Providing guidance on appropriate use of laxatives to avoid overreliance.

These interventions help nurses support patient health and prevent complications related to constipation.

Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle modifications are essential for managing and preventing constipation. Simple changes can lead to significant improvements in digestive health. Critical modifications include:

• Increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Engaging in regular physical exercise, such as walking or yoga.
• Setting a consistent time for daily bowel movements to create regularity.
• Avoiding quick fixes like laxatives which can lead to dependency.

Adopting these habits can promote natural digestive rhythm and prevent constipation over the long term.