The nurse is providing education on how to prevent constipation to a group of older adults in a nursing facility. What should be included in the education?
"It is okay to take laxatives every day to help you have a bowel movement."
"Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement even if you feel it is inconvenient."
“Do not take opiate medications as those can cause constipation."
"Be sure to eat at least 20 grams of fiber and drink at least 1,000mL per day.”
The Correct Answer is B
A. "It is okay to take laxatives every day to help you have a bowel movement." Frequent laxative use can lead to dependence and decreased bowel function over time. Instead, non-pharmacologic measures such as fiber intake, hydration, and physical activity should be encouraged first.
B."Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement even if you feel it is inconvenient." Ignoring the urge can lead to constipation as stool remains in the colon longer, resulting in increased water absorption and harder stools. Encouraging regular bowel habits helps maintain normal function.
C. "Do not take opiate medications as those can cause constipation." While opiates can cause constipation, this statement is too broad. Some individuals may require opioid therapy for pain management. Instead, the focus should be on preventing and managing opioid-induced constipation rather than avoiding these medications altogether.
D. "Be sure to eat at least 20 grams of fiber and drink at least 1,000mL per day." While increasing fiber intake is important, 20 grams may not be sufficient (the recommended daily fiber intake for older adults is about 25–30 grams). Additionally, 1,000 mL (1 liter) of fluid may be inadequate, as older adults should aim for at least 1,500–2,000 mL per day unless contraindicated.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Ensure the patient is safe and leave to get them some water: The provider’s verbal statement is not an official order. The student nurse must ensure a written order is in place before implementing dietary changes.
B. Contact dietary to order the patient a full liquid meal: The student nurse cannot place orders. They must first verify that the provider has documented the order.
C. Request that the provider write the order in the chart: Orders must be documented in the patient’s medical record before they can be carried out. The student nurse should ensure the provider formally writes the order.
D. Record the information in the patient chart: The student nurse cannot chart an order that has not been officially written by the provider.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. 58-year-old patient with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus type 2 and intact skin: While diabetes increases the risk of delayed wound healing and infection, intact skin is not an immediate concern.
B. 48-year-old patient with poor nutrition, warmth, and edema to the coccyx: Warmth and edema at a pressure site may indicate the beginning of a pressure injury or infection (e.g., cellulitis). Poor nutrition further increases the risk of skin breakdown and impaired healing, making this patient the priority for assessment.
C. 82-year-old patient with a surgical incision and approximated wound edges: A well-approximated surgical incision suggests healing is progressing normally, making this patient lower priority.
D. 69-year-old patient with a colostomy and blanchable erythema to the sacrum: Blanchable erythema is an early sign of pressure injury, but it is less concerning than warmth and edema, which suggest possible infection or worsening tissue damage.
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