The nurse assists an older adult man who is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus to improve his glucose control. Which of the following instructions does the nurse give to this individual when he plans to walk more than usual in one day?

Choice A reason: Fecal impaction is not the most common gastrointestinal complaint, as it is a condition that occurs when hardened stool accumulates in the rectum and cannot be expelled. Fecal impaction may cause abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and loss of appetite. Fecal impaction is more common in older adults, people with low-fiber diets, or people who take certain medications, such as opioids or anticholinergics.

Choice B reason: Diarrhea is the most common gastrointestinal complaint, as it is a condition that occurs when the stool is loose, watery, and frequent. Diarrhea may cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and malabsorption. Diarrhea can be caused by various factors, such as infections, food intolerance, medications, or irritable bowel syndrome.

Choice C reason: Constipation is not the most common gastrointestinal complaint, as it is a condition that occurs when the stool is hard, dry, and infrequent. Constipation may cause straining, pain, bleeding, and hemorrhoids. Constipation can be caused by various factors, such as lack of fluids, fiber, or exercise, or certain medications, such as antacids or iron supplements.

Choice D reason: Hemorrhoids are not the most common gastrointestinal complaint, as they are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that may cause itching, pain, or bleeding. Hemorrhoids can be caused by various factors, such as constipation, straining, pregnancy, or aging.

Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there is one choice that is the most common gastrointestinal complaint.

Choice A reason: Older adult declines company, is preoccupied with lethal weapons is the highest risk factor for suicide, as it indicates social isolation, hopelessness, and suicidal intent. The older adult may be suffering from depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues that impair their quality of life and increase their likelihood of harming themselves.

Choice B reason: Liver failure is due to alcohol abuse, older adult is popular at meals is not the highest risk factor for suicide, as it does not indicate suicidal ideation or behavior. The older adult may have a chronic medical condition that affects their liver function, but they may also have a supportive social network and coping skills that reduce their risk of suicide.

Choice C reason: Refuses to allow a large, extended family to help him is not the highest risk factor for suicide, as it does not indicate suicidal ideation or behavior. The older adult may have a preference for independence and autonomy, or they may have a strained relationship with their family. However, they may also have other sources of support and meaning in their life that lower their risk of suicide.

Choice D reason: The older adult had an overdose of acetaminophen 20 years ago; is in a sewing group is not the highest risk factor for suicide, as it does not indicate current suicidal ideation or behavior. The older adult may have a history of a suicide attempt, but they may also have recovered from their past crisis and found a positive outlet for their emotions and interests in the sewing group.

Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there is one choice that indicates the highest risk for suicide.