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Constipation

Care Plan for Constipation Management

Category / Primary Body System

  • Gastrointestinal System

Problem

  • Potential for constipation related to decreased mobility.

Goal

  • Patient will not have any signs of constipation for the next 90 days.

Plan/Approach

  1. Bowel Movement Monitoring

    • Monitor daily if the patient moves bowel to ensure regularity and identify any issues early.
  2. Abdominal Assessment

    • Monitor for abdominal distention to detect signs of constipation or bowel obstruction.
  3. Appetite Monitoring

    • Monitor for decreased appetite as it can be a symptom of constipation.
  4. Nausea, Vomiting, and Irritability (NVI) Monitoring

    • Monitor for NVI to detect early signs of gastrointestinal distress.
  5. Bowel Regimen

    • Administer bowel regimen as ordered (a/o) to prevent constipation.
  6. Hydration

    • Encourage fluid intake to help maintain bowel regularity unless contraindicated.
  7. Medical Updates

    • Update MD/NP as ordered with any concerns or changes in bowel habits.

Rationale

  1. Bowel Movement Monitoring

    • Regular monitoring helps identify constipation early and allows for timely intervention.
  2. Abdominal Assessment

    • Abdominal distention can indicate constipation or other gastrointestinal issues that need to be addressed.
  3. Appetite Monitoring

    • Loss of appetite can be an early sign of constipation, allowing for early intervention.
  4. Nausea, Vomiting, and Irritability (NVI) Monitoring

    • NVI can indicate worsening constipation or other complications, necessitating prompt action.
  5. Bowel Regimen

    • A structured bowel regimen helps maintain regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
  6. Hydration

    • Adequate fluid intake is essential for bowel regularity and overall gastrointestinal health.
  7. Medical Updates

    • Keeping the medical team informed ensures that any necessary adjustments to care can be made promptly.

Actions

  1. Bowel Movement Monitoring

    • Record daily bowel movements and report any irregularities to the healthcare team.
  2. Abdominal Assessment

    • Perform daily assessments for abdominal distention and report any findings to the healthcare team.
  3. Appetite Monitoring

    • Track and document daily food intake and report any decrease in appetite to the healthcare team.
  4. Nausea, Vomiting, and Irritability (NVI) Monitoring

    • Observe and document any signs of NVI and notify the healthcare team if these symptoms occur.
  5. Bowel Regimen

    • Administer prescribed bowel regimen medications as per the schedule and monitor effectiveness.
  6. Hydration

    • Encourage the patient to drink adequate fluids throughout the day, aiming for at least 8 glasses unless contraindicated.
  7. Medical Updates

    • Communicate regularly with the MD/NP about the patient’s bowel status and any changes or concerns.
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