When teaching an elderly client how to prevent constipation, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
A. “Drink 6 glasses of fluid each day.”
B. “Avoid grain products and nuts.”
C. “Add at least 4 grams of bran to your cereal each morning.”
D. “Be sure to get regular exercise.”
Correct Answer: D. “Be sure to get regular exercise.”
Exercise helps prevent constipation. Urge the patient for some physical activity and exercise. Consider isometric abdominal and gluteal exercises. Movement promotes peristalsis. Abdominal exercises strengthen abdominal muscles that facilitate defecation.
Option A: Fluids and dietary fiber promote normal bowel function. The client should drink eight to ten glasses of fluid each day. Encourage the patient to take in fluid 2000 to 3000 mL/day, if not contraindicated medically. Sufficient fluid is needed to keep the fecal mass soft. But take note of some patients or older patients having cardiovascular limitations requiring less fluid intake.
Option B: Grain products should be a part of the client’s diet. A balanced diet that comprises adequate fiber, fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains is important. Twenty grams of fiber per day is suggested.
Option C: Although adding bran to cereal helps prevent constipation by increasing dietary fiber, the client should start with a small amount and gradually increase the amount as tolerated to a maximum of 2 grams a day. Assist the patient to take at least 20 g of dietary fiber (e.g., raw fruits, fresh vegetables, whole grains) per day.
No comments:
Post a Comment