An older adult client planning to vacation with a group of senior citizens is concerned about developing constipation. The client shares this concern with the practical nurse (PN) at the retirement home. Which recommendation is best for the PN to provide?
Increase the daily oral fluid intake.
Decrease the fat content in your diet.
Use an over-the-counter (OTC) stool softener.
Eat a high-protein diet.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Increase the daily oral fluid intake: Increasing fluid intake is one of the best non-pharmacological strategies to prevent constipation, especially in older adults. Adequate hydration helps soften stool, promotes regular bowel movements, and supports overall digestive health during travel and routine changes.
B. Decrease the fat content in your diet: Reducing dietary fat is more related to managing cardiovascular health rather than preventing constipation. Fats themselves do not contribute significantly to constipation, and this advice would not directly address the client's specific concern.
C. Use an over-the-counter (OTC) stool softener: While stool softeners can be useful, recommending their routine use without first trying dietary and lifestyle modifications is not the best initial approach. Relying on medications can sometimes lead to dependency or mask underlying issues.
D. Eat a high-protein diet: High-protein diets without sufficient fiber and fluids can actually worsen constipation. Protein is important for overall health, but preventing constipation primarily requires fiber intake and adequate hydration rather than increased protein alone.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. High school: Beginning screening at the high school level is too late for early intervention. By adolescence, many obesity-related habits and risk factors are already established, making prevention efforts less effective compared to earlier childhood interventions.
B. Elementary school: Screening during elementary school years is best because it allows early identification of unhealthy weight patterns. Early detection helps in promoting healthy lifestyle habits before adolescence, improving long-term outcomes and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
C. Onset of puberty: While puberty brings significant physical changes, waiting until this stage may miss earlier opportunities for preventive education and intervention. Early habits formed in childhood often persist into adolescence and adulthood.
D. Kindergarten: Although health education can start early, formal obesity screening at kindergarten may be premature since normal variations in growth patterns are common at that age. Targeting elementary-aged children provides a better balance between early intervention and developmental appropriateness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Have you experienced anxiety or anger?": Feelings of anxiety and anger are common in anticipatory grief, but while important, they do not represent the most urgent safety concern compared to assessing for suicidal ideation.
B. "Have you been able to perform daily activities?": Evaluating functional status is important but is not the highest priority when first assessing a client’s emotional and psychological response to a terminal diagnosis.
C. "Have you had suicidal thoughts?": Assessing for suicidal ideation is the highest priority because clients facing a terminal illness may experience overwhelming despair. Ensuring the client’s immediate safety must come before addressing emotional support or coping mechanisms.
D. "Have you joined any support groups?": Participation in support groups is helpful for emotional healing, but determining the client's current mental health status and safety must be addressed before exploring support resources.
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