Introduction
Abdominal pain is often due to constipation, which can range in severity from mild to severe. Constipation is typically defined as having fewer than three bowel movements in a week or having hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass. It can be caused by diet, lack of exercise, medications, or underlying health conditions.
Assessment
- Dietary intake - What foods are consumed and when, frequency and quantity of fluid intake and when did the abdominal pain start.
- Bowel habits - Frequency, amount and characteristics of stools and any associated symptoms, such as rectal bleeding, nausea and vomiting.
- Medication history - Including herbals and over-the-counter products.
- Allergies - Food, inhalants and other medications.
- General physical exam - Includes all vital signs.
Nursing Diagnosis
- Constipation (Ineffective Gastrointestinal Tract Cleansing) related to decreased dietary intake and physical inactivity.
- Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity related to straining with defecation
Outcomes
- Patient will have an increased frequency of bowel movements.
- Patient will identify strategies to prevent skin breakdown.
Interventions
- Encourage fluid intake of at least 8 glasses of water a day unless contraindicated.
- Recommend a daily diet high in fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.
- Encourage the patient to engage in physical activity when not contraindicated.
- Recommend stool softener or laxatives to help ease discomfort and discomfort
- Instruct the patient refraining from straining when defecating.
- Instruct the patient to use a proper hand washing technique.
- Reassure the patient that constipation can be easily managed with lifestyle changes.
Rationales
- Fluids help to hydrate and lubricate the intestinal tract, resulting in softer and easier to pass stools.
- Adding dietary fiber allows fecal matter to bulk up and move more quickly through the colon.
- An increase in physical activity speeds up digestion.
- Stool softeners or laxatives can soften stools and make them easier to pass.
- Straining during defecation can lead to complications such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
- Proper handwashing techniques help prevent the spread of germs.
Evaluation
Monitor the patient’s vital signs, frequency and characteristics of stools, and reported abdominal symptoms. Evaluate patient's understanding of the need to make dietary and lifestyle changes to reduce constipation.
Conclusion
Abdominal pain related to constipation can be managed with simple interventions, such as dietary and lifestyle modifications, and medications, as needed. Proper assessment and nursing interventions can help reduce discomfort and allow the patient to experience a quicker return to normal GI function.
FAQs
How much water should I drink per day?
It is recommended that adults drink 8 glasses of water per day.
What foods are high in fiber?
High fiber foods include legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
What medications can I take for constipation?
Some medications used to treat constipation include laxatives, stool softeners, and osmotic agents.
What can I do to prevent skin breakdown?
To prevent skin breakdown: avoid straining, drink plenty of fluids, maintain a healthy weight, and practice good hygiene.
What factors can contribute to constipation?
Factors that can contribute to constipation include inadequate fluid intake, certain medications, and lack of physical activity.
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