Care Plan for Constipation

Category / Primary Body System

• Gastrointestinal System

Problem

• Resident is at risk for constipation.

Goal

• Patient will have regular bowel movements at least every 3 days for 90 days.

Plan/Approach

1. Monitoring and Assessment

   • Monitor bowel movements (BM) per protocol
   • Monitor for signs and symptoms of constipation (e.g., changes in mental status, anorexia, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal distention)
   • Monitor bowel sounds as needed

2. Medication and Regimen Management

   • Administer bowel regimen per protocol
   • Administer medications as ordered

3. Nutritional and Hydration Support

   • Consult with dietary services as needed
   • Encourage adequate hydration if not contraindicated

4. Exercise and Activity

   • Encourage regular exercise to promote bowel function

Rationale

1. Monitoring and Assessment

   • Regular monitoring of bowel movements and related symptoms helps identify constipation early, allowing for timely intervention.
   • Monitoring bowel sounds provides additional information about gastrointestinal motility.

2. Medication and Regimen Management

   • Following a bowel regimen and administering prescribed medications helps prevent and manage constipation effectively.

3. Nutritional and Hydration Support

   • Dietary consultations can help tailor the patient's diet to include fiber-rich foods that promote regular bowel movements.
   • Adequate hydration softens stool and facilitates easier bowel movements.

4. Exercise and Activity

   • Regular physical activity stimulates bowel function and helps prevent constipation.

Actions

1. Monitoring and Assessment

   • Record bowel movements in the patient’s chart per protocol, noting frequency, consistency, and any difficulties.
   • Observe for signs of constipation, such as decreased frequency of BMs, changes in mental status, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal distention.
   • Check bowel sounds as needed to assess gastrointestinal activity.

2. Medication and Regimen Management

   • Administer prescribed laxatives, stool softeners, or other bowel regimen medications according to the protocol and physician’s orders.
   • Review and adjust the bowel regimen as necessary in consultation with the healthcare provider.

3. Nutritional and Hydration Support

   • Arrange for a dietary consult to develop a meal plan that includes high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
   • Encourage the patient to drink plenty of fluids, aiming for at least 8 glasses of water daily, unless contraindicated by their medical condition.

4. Exercise and Activity

   • Encourage the patient to engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or light exercises, to stimulate bowel function.
   • Provide assistance with exercise as needed, ensuring activities are suitable for the patient’s abilities and health status.