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.