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. "Yes! I am sure you are excited to finally eat something. Let's set the head of the bed up." This statement misleads the patient by suggesting they can eat orally, which contradicts the purpose of parenteral nutrition (IV nutrition).
B. "Let me have the provider come explain to you what parenteral nutrition is." While the provider can clarify details, the nurse should explain basic information about parenteral nutrition immediately rather than deferring the question.
C. "Unfortunately, no. We are going to be providing you with nutrition through your vein." This provides a clear, direct, and simple explanation of parenteral nutrition (IV nutrition) while acknowledging the patient's interest in food.
D. "No, we will be putting in a tube that will go from your nose to your stomach to help you eat." This describes enteral nutrition (NG tube feeding), which is different from parenteral nutrition (IV feeding).
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Output assessment: Liquid stool and gas output are expected findings for an ileostomy.
B. General status: The patient’s avoidance of looking at the ileostomy suggests poor adaptation and possible psychological distress, which may require intervention.
C. Stoma assessment: A red, moist, and protruding stoma is a normal finding.
D. Laboratory data: The patient’s potassium level is on the lower end but still within normal limits. There are no critical abnormalities.
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