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 A
Explanation
A. Placing an indwelling urinary catheter: Indwelling urinary catheters are a leading cause of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), which are common healthcare-associated infections.
B. Administering medications through an NG tube: While NG tubes can introduce bacteria, they are not as high-risk as urinary catheters, which provide a direct route for infection.
C. Changing a sacral wound dressing: While wounds can become infected, proper wound care techniques minimize risk. Urinary catheters pose a greater risk due to prolonged exposure to bacteria.
D. Replacing an ostomy appliance: While maintaining hygiene is important, ostomy appliances are not a major source of healthcare-associated infections compared to urinary catheters.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Take the report home and keep it locked up: Incident reports are confidential legal documents that must remain within the healthcare facility per policy.
B. Place the report in the client's medical record: Incident reports should not be included in the client’s medical record to prevent liability issues. Instead, objective documentation of the event and any interventions should be recorded in the chart.
C. Maintain the report according to agency policy: The report must be handled per facility protocols, typically submitted to the risk management department to improve patient safety.
D. Email the report to their nursing supervisor: Incident reports contain sensitive information and should be submitted securely following facility policy, not via email.
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