An older client is being discharged from the hospital to a sub-acute unit. The client says to a nurse, "I am not sure I understand the difference between a sub-acute unit and a nursing home. Can you help me understand?" The nurse considers which of the following in formulating a response:

A. Defecation less than once each day is not necessarily constipation.

Explanation: The frequency of bowel movements varies among individuals, and defecating less than once each day does not necessarily indicate constipation. Normal bowel habits can differ, and what is considered regular for one person may not be the same for another. Constipation is better assessed by considering other factors such as stool consistency, straining during bowel movements, and feelings of incomplete evacuation.

B. Leaking liquid feces should be treated as diarrhea.

Explanation: Leaking liquid feces may be indicative of diarrhea, but it is not the only factor to consider. The cause of diarrhea should be investigated, and treatment will depend on the underlying reason, which may include infections, medications, or other medical conditions.

C. Mineral oil is recommended as a laxative for the older adult.

Explanation: Mineral oil is generally not recommended as a laxative for older adults. It can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and may have adverse effects. There are other safer and more effective laxative options that healthcare providers may recommend.

D. Excessive sleep can be a symptom of constipation.

Explanation: Excessive sleep is not typically considered a symptom of constipation. Constipation is more commonly associated with symptoms such as infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stool, and abdominal discomfort. Sleep disturbances may have various causes, but they are not a direct symptom of constipation.

A. Facilitates remote physical assessment and monitoring of chronic conditions

Explanation: Telehealth technology allows healthcare providers to remotely assess and monitor chronic conditions, enabling timely interventions and personalized care plans.

D. Promotes self-management of illness in rural and underserved areas

Explanation: Telehealth technology can help individuals in rural and underserved areas access healthcare services and information, promoting self-management of illnesses and improving overall health outcomes.

E. Decreases costs by reducing hospital readmissions

Explanation: Telehealth technology can contribute to reducing hospital readmissions by enabling remote monitoring, early detection of issues, and timely interventions, ultimately lowering healthcare costs associated with avoidable hospitalizations.

The following options are not accurate in relation to the benefits of telehealth technology:

B. Decreases costs by replacing the role of the nurse with technology

Explanation: Telehealth technology is not meant to replace the role of healthcare professionals, including nurses. Instead, it enhances their ability to provide care by extending access to patients, facilitating communication, and improving monitoring. The goal is to complement healthcare services rather than replace them.

C. Reimbursed by all health care insurances

Explanation: While reimbursement for telehealth services has expanded, it is not universally covered by all healthcare insurances. Coverage varies depending on the payer, state regulations, and the type of telehealth service provided. Reimbursement policies continue to evolve, and not all services may be covered by every insurance plan.